Zelensky and Merz in Berlin: new agreements on air defense, drones, and the return of men

Meeting of the President of Ukraine with the Chancellor of Germany

According to ХВИЛЯ: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky held a meeting with the Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz in Berlin, during which the parties signed a number of cooperation agreements. In particular, the agreements concern the defense sector and joint production. Issues of military assistance, the return of Ukrainian men, Ukraine's accession to the EU, and sanctions against the Russian Federation were also discussed.

The meeting took place as part of intergovernmental consultations, during which Ukraine and Germany signed 10 agreements. A plenary session of the consultations is scheduled to take place from 13:55 to 15:00.

Friedrich Merz: 'Today, we agreed with Ukraine on new aid packages: this concerns air defense, long-range weapons, drones, and ammunition.'

The chancellor also emphasized issues related to Ukrainian citizens who found refuge in Germany: 'We will work closely on matters concerning Ukrainian citizens who have found refuge in our country, and we will facilitate their return home.'

During the discussion on military assistance, Zelensky stressed the importance of joint production of air defense systems: 'We will produce air defense systems together with Germany to protect ourselves from any drones, any air attacks.'

He also added that 'our drone agreement with Germany will be the largest of its kind in Europe.' Chancellor Merz pointed to the need to continue working on the 20th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation: 'We continue to work on guarantees for Ukraine and on the 20th package of sanctions against the Russian Federation.'

Discussion of Ukraine's accession to the EU and other issues

Discussing Ukraine's accession to the European Union, Merz noted that 'Ukraine's membership in the EU will not be second-class membership.' He emphasized that this is a process in which Ukraine must meet certain criteria. Zelensky, for his part, stated: 'We do not want NATO-light or EU-light. We want full membership in the EU.'

Furthermore, the meeting discussed the issue of the return of Ukrainian men seeking asylum in Germany. Merz expressed the opinion that it is important for these men to be home and help their country: 'We will work with Ukraine to limit the number of Ukrainian men seeking asylum here.'

According to media reports, changes to the status of Ukrainian refugees in the European Union are being discussed after March 2027. Within the framework of economic cooperation, it was reported that the Druzhba pipeline will be repaired by the end of April. Volodymyr Zelensky noted that although not all tanks will be repaired, the system will be able to function: 'Not fully, but enough to function.'

The meeting between Zelensky and Merz marked an important step in the development of cooperation between Ukraine and Germany, contributing to the strengthening of strategic relations in various spheres.

This meeting demonstrates the activation of bilateral relations between Ukraine and Germany in the context of strengthening military cooperation and supporting Ukraine on the international stage. The signed agreements may serve as the basis for deepening cooperation in the defense sector, as well as for addressing social issues arising from the war in Ukraine. The continuation of discussions on assistance and sanctions against Russia indicates a common position of both countries in supporting stability in the region.

As Ukraine strengthens its defense collaboration with Germany, it's essential to explore the broader implications of this partnership. This new agreement not only enhances military support but also signifies a pivotal moment in Ukraine's journey towards European integration. For a deeper understanding of the strategic defense alliance and its potential impact, read more about how Germany and Ukraine are becoming key partners in the realm of defense through their latest agreement.