Press conference on German-Ukrainian intergovernmental consultations
Germany and Ukraine want to move closer together. At the German-Ukrainian intergovernmental consultations, Federal Chancellor Merz emphasised the common goal of learning from each other and investing in the future together.
- Transcript of press conference
- Tuesday, 14 April 2026
Germany and Ukraine want to intensify their cooperation in areas such as the development of weapons systems.
Photo: Federal Government/Steffen Kugler
Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz received Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for German-Ukrainian intergovernmental consultations in Berlin. The first consultations in over 20 years set the course for a strategic partnership. “Our cooperation is more effective today, our trusting partnership stronger and our friendship and the bond between our societies deeper than ever,” said Merz at the end of the meeting.
Both governments agreed on a joint declaration that further strengthens this partnership. Ukraine and Germany also signed agreements on security cooperation and on industrial reconstruction in Ukraine.
Read the most important facts in brief here:
- Partners for a secure Europe: Since 2026 Germany has become Ukraine's most important bilateral partner, the Chancellor emphasised. Military support also strengthens Germany's security, and at the same time, Germany continues to support Ukraine's aspirations to join the EU.
- Economic dynamism and innovation: Germany could benefit from Ukraine's experience in the digitalisation and modernisation of state services. In Ukraine, on the other hand, German companies can contribute their extensive expertise to the reconstruction process. “And, of course, we are providing Ukraine with intensive support in the area of energy security,” emphasised Federal Chancellor Merz with a view to the coming winter.
- Cultural exchange and municipal partnerships: A German-Ukrainian Year of Culture is planned for 2027/2028. A joint municipal partnership conference is to be held in 2026. The two countries also want to work more closely together to make it easier for Ukrainian citizens who have found refuge in Germany to return to Ukraine. Germany also supports Ukraine's efforts to reduce the number of Ukrainian men of military age leaving the country to travel to the EU.
- Peace for Ukraine: The Federal Chancellor reaffirmed the goal of a negotiated end to the Russian war of aggression. “Ukraine is ready for it, but will rightly not accept a dictated peace,” said the Chancellor. Supporting the country is part of clever and powerful diplomacy. The agreed EU loan is now set to be put in place. At the same time, further measures are planned to dry up the sources of Russian war funding.
Read the transcript of the press conference here (German only):