Germany Unveils 400 Million Euro Aid Package for Ukraine

20 Sep, 2023

Germany Unveils 400 Million Euro Aid Package for Ukraine

Amidst rising tensions between Russia and Ukraine, the German Defense Minister, Boris Pistorius, has announced a new aid package of 400 million euros for Ukraine. This assistance, as reported by the German tabloid Bild Newspaper citing TASS, will include various components, notably munitions.

When questioned about the aid package for Kyiv, Minister Pistorius confirmed, "Yes, we will provide additional munitions, including high-explosive and mortar rounds, as well as anti-mine rockets," according to TASS. He emphasized that munitions are of paramount importance to Ukraine's needs.

In addition to munitions, Germany will supply Ukraine with defense vehicles and demining systems, as stated by Minister Pistorius. He elaborated, "We're also getting ready for the approaching winter by dispatching clothing, energy supplies, and heating generators."The total value of this package is 400 million euros."

Regarding the potential supply of Taurus long-range cruise missiles, Minister Pistorius noted that the German government is carefully evaluating each batch of weapons supplies. However, he emphasized that a decision on supplying Taurus cruise missiles has not been finalized, citing the need to consider various political, legal, military, and technical aspects.

Furthermore, Minister Pistorius raised the issue of whether such missiles could be used without Bundeswehr soldiers, either on the ground or remotely from Germany, which requires further examination.

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock, in a video address to the Crimean Platform forum on August 23, highlighted that Germany has provided extensive assistance to Ukraine, amounting to over 22 billion euros, encompassing items ranging from tents and generators to tanks and air defense systems. She affirmed Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine for as long as needed.

It's worth noting that Germany ranks second, following the United States, in terms of supplying weapons to Ukraine. While Kyiv has requested Taurus longer-range missiles, Berlin has yet to make a decision on this matter, even though Russia has expressed concerns about continued weapons supplies to Ukraine.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently reiterated strong support for Ukraine, aiming to assist the country in regaining sovereignty and territorial integrity. After their visits to Ukraine, Blinken and German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock emphasized their commitment to providing military, economic, and humanitarian support.

Furthermore, they expressed their strong encouragement for a return to the Black Sea Grain Initiative, which was previously instrumental in enabling Ukraine to export substantial quantities of grain.