Germany and Ukraine have elevated their relationship to the level of a strategic partnership

German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the transition to a strategic partnership with Ukraine and the resumption of intergovernmental consultations, which had not been held for over 20 years. 

He made this statement during a joint press conference with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin. The parties adopted a joint declaration confirming the strengthening of cooperation in the defense, economic, and digital sectors.

As part of the new agreements, Germany confirmed it would provide comprehensive support measures, particularly in the areas of air defense, long-range weapons, drones, and artillery. Cooperation in the field of digitalization and modernization of public services, where Ukraine is already a global leader, has been identified as a separate priority. A working group on economy and trade will also be established to coordinate efforts to rebuild Ukraine’s infrastructure.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the resumption of consultations a significant political achievement and recalled the existing rapid-response mechanism involving the defense and foreign ministers of both countries. The partnership also provides for active assistance from Berlin in strengthening Ukraine’s energy security amid Russia’s ongoing aggression. Chancellor Merz emphasized that Germany seeks to see Ukraine as a sovereign and strong partner in a free and secure Europe.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Berlin on April 14.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz officially confirmed support for Kyiv’s European integration aspirations, emphasizing the fundamental importance of this step for the stability of the entire continent.