Germany is planning to provide an additional €1.9 billion ($2.2 billion) in military aid to Ukraine, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced Thursday during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv.
"I can say that Germany began this year with plans to provide €4 billion ($4.6 billion) in support for Ukraine. We have increased this to €7 billion ($8.1 billion) over the past few months," Pistorius said.
"An additional €1.9 billion ($2.2 billion) will be made available in the coming weeks and months once the decision has been taken in Parliament."
Pistorius also announced that Germany and Ukraine will strengthen their defense industry cooperation, with Berlin co-financing the production of long-range missile systems in Ukraine. The first systems are expected to be operational in the coming months, he added.
The German defense minister, now in his second term, emphasized that Germany and its European allies remain committed to providing comprehensive and substantial support to ensure Ukraine can continue defending itself against Russia.
“We are deeply convinced that it is the duty of the Europeans to continue to support Ukraine,” Pistorius said.
"This is not just Ukraine's defensive war against Russia.This is a defensive battle that Ukraine is waging for freedom, security and peace in Europe as a whole," he added.
Zelenskyy welcomed Germany’s new commitments, highlighting Berlin’s leadership role in providing military aid and support for Ukraine’s defense industry.
“We had a detailed discussion on our cooperation. Agreements have been reached on additional investments in the defense industry — both in Ukraine and in Germany. This includes long-range capabilities — there should be more of them, and there will be,” the Ukrainian president said.
He underscored joint efforts to localize air defense production in Ukraine. “We also touched on the localization of air defense production in Ukraine and joint diplomatic efforts — everything related to strengthening our positions,” he said.
The Ukrainian leader expressed gratitude for Germany’s continued support and emphasized the importance of maintaining the Ramstein format.
“Germany is undoubtedly one of the key leaders in providing assistance and protecting lives. We truly value every support package. This year alone, we already have €7 billion — and there may be more. Thank you!” Zelenskyy added.
*Alperen Aktas contributed to the story from Istanbul
