Germany's new chancellor (R) greeted Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky to Berlin on Wednesday
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has announced that Germany will assist Ukraine in developing and producing long-range weapons systems, marking a significant shift in Berlin’s military support for Kyiv.
Speaking during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Germany, Scholz said the new initiative would strengthen Ukraine’s defence capacity against ongoing Russian aggression. “We will jointly produce weapons, including long-range missile systems, to help Ukraine defend its sovereignty,” he stated during a press conference in Berlin.
The announcement comes amid renewed calls from Kyiv for more advanced weaponry to counter Russia’s air superiority and long-range strike capabilities. While Germany has previously supplied air defence systems, tanks, and artillery to Ukraine, this is the first public commitment to co-produce advanced weaponry such as long-range missiles.
President Zelensky welcomed the pledge, calling it a “historic decision” and a “clear message” to Russia. He emphasized the urgent need for Ukraine to build a self-sufficient defence industry capable of sustaining its war effort over the long term.
The two leaders also signed a bilateral security agreement and discussed further steps for Ukraine’s integration into NATO and the European Union.
Chancellor Scholz reiterated Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine, stating that Berlin “will stand with Kyiv for as long as it takes.”
The announcement is expected to draw criticism from Moscow, which has previously warned against Western involvement in arms production on behalf of Ukraine.
