Germany reaffirms support for Ukraine with €650 million aid package

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz visited Kyiv, pledging €650 million in new military aid, including tanks and air defences. Amid political shifts in Germany, Scholz assured long-term support for Ukraine, urging Russia to end its invasion and respect Ukrainian sovereignty.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced €650 million in new military aid for Ukraine during a rare visit to Kyiv on Monday, signalling Germany’s continued support for Ukraine against Russia.

Scholz emphasised that Berlin stands with Kyiv “for as long as it takes,” sending a clear message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

This visit coincides with political turmoil in Germany following the collapse of his governing coalition and growing uncertainty about Western support for Ukraine amid shifting U.S. politics.

The new aid package includes IRIS-T air defence systems, Leopard 1 tanks, and armed drones, according to Germany’s defence ministry. Scholz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reviewed joint drone projects and visited a hospital treating wounded servicemen.

Despite being Ukraine’s second-largest weapons supplier after the U.S., Scholz has resisted sending Taurus cruise missiles, citing concerns over escalation. Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s need for enhanced air defences and expressed hope for progress on the missile issue.

Scholz defended a controversial phone call with Putin in November, stating he urged Russia to end its invasion and respect Ukraine’s sovereignty. Meanwhile, Ukraine continues to push for NATO membership, though divisions remain among alliance members.

Germany's snap elections in February have brought Ukraine into domestic politics, with opposition leader Friedrich Merz advocating for sending Taurus missiles. Critics accuse Scholz of risking Germany’s security by prioritising domestic political gains.

Tags

Germany Ukraine