Germany and Ukraine boost defence ties with weapons pact

• What happened? Germany and Ukraine will sign a letter of intent to acquire long-range weapons systems produced by Ukraine.
• Where and when? The announcement was made in Berlin after the meeting between German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
• Why is it important? This represents the start of a new form of military-industrial cooperation between Germany and Ukraine, which could impact the regional balance of power.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz revealed that the defence ministers of Germany and Ukraine will sign a letter of intent regarding the acquisition of long-range weapons systems, known as long-range fires, from Ukrainian production. The meeting took place in Berlin, with the goal of enhancing military cooperation between the two countries.

Merz highlighted that the weapons would have no range limitations, allowing Ukraine to defend itself against military targets beyond its own territory. “There are no more range limitations for weapons delivered to Ukraine. Ukraine has the right to use the weapons it receives beyond its own borders against military targets on Russian territory. In my view, this is necessary, because those who only fend off an attack on their own territory cannot defend themselves sufficiently,” the chancellor explained.

When questioned about the potential delivery of Taurus cruise missiles to Ukraine, Merz declined to provide details on specific types of weapons. “There will be no public information about specific types of weapons,” he emphasised. The chancellor also assured that his government will do everything possible to prevent the reactivation of the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline.