Russia does not limit its aggressive policies to Ukraine, which is why Germany provides military support to Kyiv and encourages other partners to increase their contributions, said German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius at the 2025 Berlin Security Conference.
“We provide support wherever we can, and we advocate for greater support from our partners. We do this because we know that Russia’s aggression is not confined to regional boundaries,” Pistorius stated.
He reminded that Moscow is already conducting hybrid attacks against European countries through cyberattacks, espionage, sabotage, and disinformation. In addition, there are damaged undersea cables, violations of airspace, and drones. The Baltic Sea is increasingly becoming a zone of confrontation that requires a reactive response, Pistorius noted.
At the same time, commenting on support for Ukraine, the politician acknowledged that the situation varies across NATO member countries in Europe. Some states face serious financial challenges, while others, like Germany, have internal debates.
"And yet we remain committed to Ukraine and continue to support it… The truth is, doing less now will cost more later. If we do not do enough to help Ukraine survive and win, it will be much more expensive later. We must always remember this," the minister emphasized.
He noted that this is not only about protecting and supporting Ukraine as a European sovereign country, but also about European security and sending a clear message to Russia and Vladimir Putin that Europeans are able and ready to defend their freedom and sovereignty.
"And to demonstrate this, the first important step is not to stop supporting Ukraine," Pistorius stressed.
On the sidelines of the conference, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Sweden’s Minister of Defense, Pal Jonson—Sweden being this year’s partner country—signed a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation. The document aims to strengthen collaboration on all military matters, enhance the defense industry, foster cooperation and innovation, and develop new systems and weapons.
