Key Outcomes from Zelenskyy-Merz Meeting: Germany to Boost Ukraine’s Air Defense and Long-Range Capabilities
During President Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin, Germany pledged stronger support for Ukraine’s air defense and long-range weapons development. Agreements also include drone production, energy cooperation, and increased pressure on Russia, The Gaze reports.
€5 Billion in New Military Aid
Germany’s Defense Ministry announced a fresh €5 billion military aid package for Ukraine, significantly expanding its support amid Russia’s ongoing war of aggression. The funds will bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities in the near and long term.
Strengthened Air Defense Agreements
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced “very important new agreements” with Germany focused on bolstering Ukraine’s air defense systems. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed expanded military support aimed at countering ongoing Russian aggression.
Joint Development of Long-Range Weapons
Germany will help Ukraine develop new long-range weapons capable of striking military targets on Russian territory. There will be no range restrictions, and production may take place in both Ukraine and Germany. A memorandum of understanding between the defense ministries is expected to be signed soon.
Investment in Ukrainian Drone Production
The two leaders agreed to expand cooperation in drone manufacturing. Germany will support Ukrainian-based production, marking a new phase in Ukraine’s defense industry development.
Renewed Bilateral Government Consultations
Germany and Ukraine will reestablish high-level intergovernmental consultations—set to take place later this year for the first time since 2004—covering sectors such as infrastructure, energy, medical technology, and construction.
Shared Commitment to Peace and Pressure on Russia
Both leaders emphasized the need to intensify pressure on Russia through sanctions and defense coordination. President Zelenskyy reiterated that Russia is stalling peace talks and called for the unconditional cessation of hostilities. He also pressed for frozen Russian assets to be used for Ukraine’s recovery.
Support for Ukraine’s Participation in the NATO Summit
Zelenskyy urged that Ukraine be invited to the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, stating that Kyiv’s absence would be “a victory for Putin.” Chancellor Merz voiced support for stronger NATO-Ukraine ties.
Germany Opposes Nord Stream 2 Recommissioning
Chancellor Merz firmly stated that Germany would “do everything” to ensure the controversial Nord Stream 2 pipeline remains permanently offline, reaffirming Berlin’s commitment to energy independence from Russia.
As The Gaze previously reported, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on Wednesday at a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin that his country would expand its military aid to Ukraine.