Ukrainian President Zelensky in Berlin
Germany and Ukraine have grown closer in the course of the war, said Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin. The two heads of state and government agreed to work together more intensively.
- Transcript of press conference
- Wednesday, 28 May 2025
Federal Chancellor Merz and President Zelensky agreed to further cooperation in Ukraine.
Photo: Federal Government / Jesco Denzel
"The people of Ukraine have been resisting the Russian war of aggression for over three years now. They are defending their lives, their country and our shared freedom. They are also making great sacrifices in the defence of the security of Europe." With these words, Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz honoured the Ukrainians' fight against Russian aggression at the reception for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin.
Nobody wants peace more than Ukraine itself. "We want the weapons in Ukraine to fall silent. We want lasting peace for Ukraine and we want security for all of Europe. We want all of this in the closest possible partnership with our friends in Europe and the USA," emphasised the Chancellor. To this end, Germany stands firmly by Ukraine's side.
The most important points of the statement in brief:
- Bilateral relations: The close cooperation between the two governments and their members should continue to grow. Therefore "we will be holding German-Ukrainian government consultations" towards the end of this year – for the first time in many years", said Merz.
- Ceasefire efforts: The recent massive Russian airstrikes on Kyiv are a slap in the face for all those who are endeavouring to reach a ceasefire and enter into negotiations for peace – in Ukraine, in Europe and in the USA. That is why the pressure on Russia will be increased.
- Support for Ukraine: The Federal Chancellor made clear: "We will continue our military support, and we will expand it." Germany finances a considerable part of the country's Starlink coverage. In addition, the defence ministers of both countries were signing a declaration of intent on the procurement of extensive Ukrainian-made weapons systems later that same day. There were to be no range restrictions.
- Economic co-operation: With a view to a "future beyond war", the Federal Chancellor announced talks with representatives from German business and industry. The potential for closer economic cooperation between Ukraine and Germany is there, he said, and the issues are obvious: energy, infrastructure, construction, agriculture, mechanical engineering, medical technology. The Federal Chancellor emphasised that this potential should be developed jointly and in partnership.
Read the full press statements here (in German only):