Germany pledges over $12 billion in military aid to Ukraine amid ongoing conflict with Russia

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has reaffirmed Germany’s strong commitment to supporting Ukraine during a surprise visit to Kyiv and announced a new military aid package worth 11.25 billion euros ($12.1 billion). 

"Due to the stalemate between the US and Russia, it is absolutely crucial that we Europeans demonstrate that we stand by Ukraine without ifs and buts - and that we support them now even more," Baerbock said in a statement after arriving in Kyiv, Caliber.Az reports via Turkish media.

Baerbock emphasized that Germany's dedication to Ukraine would not waver, even as the political landscape in Berlin is set to shift following the February 23 elections. With the Christian Democrats expected to form a coalition with the Social Democrats, the minister made it clear that the country's support for Ukraine would remain unwavering.

“Germany will not abandon the Ukrainian people—our European neighbors. The decision of the current and future governing parties to provide an additional 3 billion euros ($3.2 billion) for short-term support and a further 8.25 billion euros ($8.9 billion) in military support by 2029 demonstrates our firm cross-party solidarity and commitment,” she declared. In addition to the military aid, Baerbock also announced an extra 130 million euros ($140 million) in humanitarian assistance and stabilization efforts to help Ukraine during the crisis. 

Baerbock took the opportunity to criticize Russian President Vladimir Putin for derailing ceasefire talks by adding new conditions. She accused Putin of using delay tactics and said NATO allies would address these issues at an upcoming meeting with their US counterparts later this week. “It is Putin who is playing for time, does not want peace and is continuing his war of aggression in violation of international law. He simulates a willingness to negotiate, but refuses to budge even a millimeter from his goals,” Baerbock stated. “We must not be deceived by Putin and his supporters. A mere suggestion of peace is not peace itself. At the upcoming NATO foreign ministers' meeting, we will make it clear to the American side that we cannot yield to Putin's delaying tactics,” she added. 

This visit marks Baerbock’s final trip to Ukraine in her current role, with a new German coalition government set to take shape later this month. Throughout her tenure, Baerbock has visited Ukraine ten times, and the recent visit was her 11th overall and 9th since the war began in February 2022.

By Naila Huseynova