The head of state noted that the issue of supplying Patriot missiles was discussed with several partner countries.
Friedrich Merz arrived in Beijing for a two-day visit, where he will discuss fair economic conditions for German companies and China's assistance in ending the Russian-Ukrainian war. He emphasized the importance of the European context of Germany's policy towards China.
Germany is increasing its support for Ukraine, raising military aid to 11. 5 billion euros by 2026. The EU is also working on a 90 billion euro loan mechanism for Ukraine.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius criticized Donald Trump's approach to Russia's war against Ukraine. He stated that Trump's actions could have strengthened Putin's confidence and complicated negotiations.
The defense ministers of Norway and Germany have signed a bilateral defense agreement. It covers cooperation in five main areas, including space surveillance and maritime security.
President Zelenskyy received the first attack drone manufactured at a German-Ukrainian enterprise in Germany. This year, 10,000 such drones will strengthen the Ukrainian army.
Northern European countries are concerned that the EU loan to Ukraine could lead partners to abandon bilateral support. This renews discussions about burden-sharing between Northern and Southern Europe.
Germany has nominated Bundeswehr Inspector General Carsten Breuer for the position of Chairman of the NATO Military Committee. The new chairman will take office in the summer of 2027.
Ukraine is forming a new defense model based on technological solutions and innovations. The country is ready to share these developments with partners.
Mykhailo Fedorov held talks with the NATO Secretary General and the defense ministers of Britain and Germany. Key priorities for supporting Ukraine were discussed ahead of the "Ramstein" meeting.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that over 40,000 questionnaires have been sent to potential military personnel. The reform, which started on January 1, provides for mandatory completion of questionnaires for men and voluntary for women.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed skepticism about Putin's peaceful intentions, despite diplomatic efforts. He emphasized that massive shelling of Ukraine and attacks on infrastructure indicate the opposite.
Ukraine's air defense forces have already received nine modern IRIS-T missile systems. These missiles are capable of rapid maneuvering, hitting targets on head-on courses and during pursuit, and distinguishing real targets from decoys.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul believes that Russia could use a ceasefire in Ukraine to prepare for an attack on NATO. He emphasizes the need for reliable security guarantees for Ukraine, especially from the United States, in the event of territorial concessions.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called for further support for Ukraine to prevent a Russian attack on NATO countries. He emphasized Germany's importance in increasing defense spending and rapidly building up armaments.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that only Russian dictator Vladimir Putin can immediately end the war, despite joint efforts for a ceasefire. He also emphasized the importance of negotiations in Berlin and the coordination of positions among European partners, the US, and Ukraine.
In 2026, the Armed Forces of Ukraine will receive 200 "Bohdana" self-propelled artillery systems based on German Mercedes-Benz Zetros chassis. 750 million euros have been allocated for the implementation of the program from Germany's support package of 1.2 billion euros.
European leaders support Ukraine, seeking to uphold international law and counter Russian aggression. They fear that a deal in Russia's favor could lead to a wider war on the continent.
The "Ramstein-32" meeting brought Ukraine record financial commitments for 2026, including 11. 5 billion euros from Germany and 7 billion dollars from Norway. Partner countries also transferred new Patriot and IRIS-T air defense systems, and allocated funds for drones, artillery, and ammunition.
Germany has completed the transfer of two Patriot air defense systems and the ninth IRIS-T system to Ukraine, strengthening the protection of the Ukrainian sky. The total amount of German aid to Ukraine next year will reach 11.5 billion euros, which is a new record.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius spoke cautiously about the role of European forces for Ukraine, noting that much would depend on Putin's actions. He supported the idea of a European military presence but pointed to unresolved issues regarding their deployment.
Germany has become the first European country to deploy the advanced Arrow air defense system. It is designed to intercept medium-range ballistic missiles, such as Russia's "Oreshnik," and will be deployed in three locations by 2030.
Germany will purchase American weapons for Ukraine for $200 million under the PURL program. An additional $25 million will be allocated for winter equipment and medical supplies for the Armed Forces of Ukraine from NATO.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius warned against forcing Ukraine into unilateral territorial concessions. He emphasized that Ukraine must remain capable of defending itself in the future.
The German Chancellor's Cabinet has approved a law allowing the Bundeswehr to shoot down unknown drones suspected of spying on military bases and industrial facilities. The military will be able to use force against UAVs at the request of local police, using weapons or jammers.
The Russian State Duma approved an increase in VAT from 20% to 22% starting in 2026, expecting an additional trillion rubles for the budget. The changes also lower the annual income threshold for businesses required to collect VAT from 60 to 10 million rubles.
The deployment of NATO troops to the eastern flank in the event of a full-scale Russian invasion could take 45 days, while the EU aims to reduce this period to 3-5 days. The problem lies in different railway track gauge standards and bureaucracy, which complicates the movement of troops across Europe.
NATO Assistant Secretary General Boris Ruge stated that there is no single position within the Alliance regarding the possibility of shooting down Russian missiles and drones over Ukraine, even if they threaten allies. NATO is focused on protecting the airspace of member countries and supports Ukraine with air defense systems.
Belgium has purchased autonomous Blaze drones from the Latvian company Origin Robotics to detect and neutralize enemy aircraft. This is part of a 50 million euro package of measures aimed at countering drones after a series of incidents.
Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov said, in response to German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius' warning about a possible Russian attack on NATO, that Russia "may take measures to ensure security. " But he stressed that Moscow does not seek confrontation with NATO countries.
