German coalition leaders visit Kyiv to reaffirm support for Ukraine

Leaders of Germany’s governing coalition have arrived in Kyiv to underscore Berlin’s commitment to supporting Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia.

Jens Spahn, representing the Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU), and Matthias Miersch of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) arrived in the Ukrainian capital on September 1 for discussions focused on Germany’s continued assistance and diplomatic efforts to end the war, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media. 

“Matthias Miersch and I are here to send a clear signal: the government factions of the CDU/CSU and the SPD stand now and in the future on the side of Ukraine, the brave Ukrainians who are defending their homeland, their country, and also Europe,” Spahn told journalists upon arrival.

When asked about potential security guarantees for Ukraine, including the deployment of German troops, Spahn emphasised that the primary safeguard is a strong and well-equipped Ukrainian army.

“The first and most important guarantee of security for Ukraine is the Ukrainian army. First of all, we want to equip it as well as possible,” he said.

Miersch echoed Spahn’s comments, while both politicians refrained from providing specifics on the possibility of Bundeswehr deployment.

“First of all, it was planned to arm and equip the Ukrainian army, provide it with constant support, and then, together with the Americans, provide Ukraine with security guarantees. There are many options; what exactly and how will be discussed during the negotiations,” Spahn added.

This visit follows German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil’s trip to Kyiv on August 25, when he pledged EUR 9 billion annually in support for Ukraine and reiterated Berlin’s readiness to contribute to security guarantees.

However, Klingbeil, like German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul before him, did not confirm any deployment of German troops in Ukraine.

By Sabina Mammadli