German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov signed an agreement in Berlin to fund the production of long-range weapons manufactured in Ukraine. Additionally, a contract was concluded between Ukraine and the German defense industry. Umerov traveled to the German capital together with President Volodymyr Zelensky for talks.
Despite efforts toward a ceasefire, Russia intensifies drone attacks
Deaths, injuries, massive destruction – although Ukraine and many Western countries have long been advocating for a ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow, Putin’s Russia is currently bombarding Ukraine with the heaviest drone attacks since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. During the Ukrainian defense minister’s visit to Berlin’s Bendlerblock on May 28, 2025, Minister Pistorius reiterated Germany’s unwavering support and pledged concrete assistance to the embattled nation.
Germany to support production of long-range weapons systems
Germany will fund the production of long-range weapon systems in Ukraine. The two ministers formalized this agreement in writing in Berlin. The commitment stems from Germany’s earlier pledge to directly invest in Ukraine’s defense production sector, which possesses both unused manufacturing capacities and the technical expertise to produce modern systems.
A significant quantity of long-range weapons is expected to be produced within 2025. These systems will be rapidly deployed to the Ukrainian Armed Forces – the first could be in use within a few weeks. Since these systems are already in service with the Ukrainian military, no additional training is required.
Germany continues delivering air defense systems, weapons, and ammunition
Germany will also continue supplying ammunition. In addition to previously promised artillery munitions for 2025, further packages will include ammunition for various weapons systems, especially for critical air defense systems. Germany is also providing Ukraine with ground-based weapons systems and small arms.
In the presence of the German Defense Minister, the Ukrainian Defense Minister and German defense company Diehl signed a contract for the delivery of air defense systems and associated ammunition to Ukraine.
Support for command capabilities and endurance
Germany will finance maintenance and repair facilities in Ukraine, enhancing the sustainability and operational readiness of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Defense companies from both countries agreed to form a joint venture for this purpose.
Germany has also confirmed funding for a significant portion of Ukraine’s satellite communication needs, originally pledged in April. The continued operation of the satellite system over the long term is now secured. The same applies to Ukraine’s military command communication system. Additionally, Minister Pistorius pledged further support in the medical field, including financing medical equipment produced in Ukraine.
Total support package: €5 billion
The total value of these defense support initiatives is around €5 billion. The funding comes from resources already approved by the Bundestag. The German government explicitly aims to provide long-term, sustainable reinforcement of Ukraine’s defense capabilities through direct investments in Ukraine’s defense industry and collaborations with defense companies.
“Enduring Action on Air Defence”
Germany views its responsibility not only in direct support but also in mobilizing other countries. Alongside Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Minister Pistorius plans to advocate for joint efforts among international partners, especially in the area of air defense. The “Immediate Action on Air Defence” initiative – which has already raised about €1 billion – is set to evolve into “Enduring Action on Air Defence,” a sustained, coordinated effort to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense system.
