Billions in Aid for Ukraine Seals the Deal: Zelensky Hails Germany's Generosity
- Aid flow into Ukraine amounts to billions of euros
The assistance package is jam-packed with goodies for Ukraine, including "air defense systems, artillery, drones, armored vehicles, mine clearance equipment, and more." Zelensky beamed, "Germany delivers the goods when we need it the most, equipment that keeps Ukrainian citizens alive and kicking."
German defense industry contracts can now be rounded up and signed, sealing a future "that promises long-term security assurances," Zelensky explained. "This move is a major step towards forming lasting security guarantees," he continued. "Germany recognizes that after the war, the Ukrainian army will be a force to be reckoned with, and they're happy to contribute to that fact."
Zelensky expressed his gratitude to the German people and all democratic forces who helped make this decision possible. Special thanks went to Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) and the victor of the Bundestag election, Friedrich Merz (CDU). "Everything we're doing now to thwart Russian aggression will create long-term security for the future," he wrote, signing off in German: "Thank you, Germany!"
Kyiv's ambassador to Berlin, Oleksii Makeiev, chimed in on the matter on Friday. "The Ukrainians are a grateful crowd," he penned. "I extend my gratitude to my political buddies, members of the Bundeswehr, and most importantly, German taxpayers."
The Breakdown
Since the conflict erupted in 2022, Germany's commitment towards military assistance for Ukraine has totaled around 28 billion euros[2]. Recently, an additional long-term military aid package worth over 11 billion euros was greenlit, with 3 billion euros earmarked for 2025 and 8.3 billion euros planned for the years 2026 to 2029[1][4].
The aid package aims to bolster Ukraine's military arsenal, focusing on enhancements in air defense, artillery, and infantry capabilities[1][3]. Some of the specific equipment included in the aid package is:
- Air Defense Systems
- IRIS-T air defense systems
- Patriot systems
- Ammunition and Artillery
- Anti-tank mines
- Artillery shells
- Armored Vehicles
- Marder infantry fighting vehicles
- Protective vehicles
- Drones
- €900 million has been allocated for drones, with €225 million worth of drones slated for delivery in 2025[1].
- Other Equipment
- Precision rifles (HLR 338)
- Machine guns (MG5, MG4)
- Grenade launchers (GMG)
- Anti-tank weapons (Panzerfaust 3, RGW 90)
- Demining equipment[2][3].
This aid package will help strengthen Ukraine's military readiness in the face of Russian aggression. Cheers to Germany for their unwavering support! 🍻
Zelensky, the author of this gratitude, acknowledged the Bundeswehr's role in securing long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, praising Germany's decision to supply drones worth billions of dollars. This generous aid, including air defense systems, artillery, armored vehicles, mine clearance equipment, and more, is a significant boost for Ukraine's future. The German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, and the CDU's Friedrich Merz were especially thanked for their integral parts in authorizing this aid.