BERLIN: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced on Friday that Germany will provide Ukraine with approximately €17 billion ($19 billion) in military assistance by 2027, solidifying its commitment to supporting Kyiv in the long term.
Scholz praised the already agreed budget earmarks that would enable Germany to pledge this significant support over a five-year period since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022.
According to a government document published on Wednesday, the investment will include €2 billion in 2022, €5.4 billion this year, and an additional €10.5 billion until 2027. This substantial financial commitment positions Germany as Ukraine’s largest supporter, both in terms of military assistance and overall aid, following the United States (US).
Germany’s Support for Ukraine
During the recent NATO summit in Vilnius, Germany further demonstrated its support by pledging an additional €700 million in arms for Ukraine. The package includes two Patriot missile system launchers, 40 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, and 25 Leopard 1 tanks.
Germany’s shift in its traditionally pacifist stance became evident after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In response, Germany has significantly increased its military support to Kyiv, providing various weaponry ranging from air defense systems to artillery. Earlier this year, Berlin initiated the delivery of advanced Leopard battle tanks to Ukraine, fulfilling Kyiv’s request for heavy weapons to strengthen its counteroffensive against Russia.
