Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet German opposition leader Friedrich Merz in Berlin, as Ukraine pushes for increased European support amid intensifying Russian attacks. The visit comes at a critical juncture, with Kyiv’s forces under mounting pressure and Zelenskyy renewing calls for long-range weapons and stronger air defense systems.
Purpose of Visit
Zelenskyy’s visit to Germany marks his continued efforts to rally European allies, particularly Germany, for more substantial military and political backing. His planned meeting with Merz, who leads Germany’s main opposition party—the Christian Democratic Union (CDU)—is seen as an attempt to solidify bipartisan support within German politics.
While Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government has provided Ukraine with considerable military assistance, including tanks and air defense systems, Kyiv is urging for a greater volume and range of weapons, especially longer-range missiles.
Germany’s Role in Ukraine’s War Effort
Germany has emerged as one of Ukraine’s top European backers since the Russian invasion in 2022. In recent months, it has ramped up aid by delivering IRIS-T air defense systems and Leopard 2 tanks. However, Ukrainian officials argue that support is still insufficient given the scale of the conflict and the destruction caused by Russia’s persistent missile and drone attacks.
According to Ukrainian military officials, German-supplied equipment has helped prevent further territorial losses in eastern regions, but additional air defense systems are urgently needed to protect infrastructure and civilians from daily strikes.
Zelenskyy’s Broader European Tour
Berlin is just one stop on Zelenskyy’s broader diplomatic effort across Europe. In recent days, he has met with leaders in France and the Netherlands, as part of Ukraine’s attempt to maintain momentum for Western unity. These efforts are particularly important as some European nations face domestic political fatigue and economic pressures.
Ukrainian diplomats have emphasized that sustained European support is vital not only for Ukraine’s defense but also for the continent’s security as a whole.
Opposition Leader Merz’s Stance
Friedrich Merz has generally supported Germany’s aid to Ukraine, though he has occasionally criticized Chancellor Scholz’s government for delays in delivering key military equipment. His meeting with Zelenskyy could be interpreted as a move to show solidarity with Ukraine while also distinguishing the CDU’s approach to foreign policy.
German media report that Merz is expected to reaffirm his party’s commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty and its aspirations for closer ties with the European Union and NATO.
A New Phase in the War
The meeting takes place as Ukrainian intelligence suggests Russia is preparing for a new offensive. Ukrainian officials have warned of intensified military operations in the eastern Donbas region, and have urged partners to act swiftly in response.
Western analysts believe Zelenskyy’s renewed outreach to Germany signals that Kyiv views Berlin as a key pillar in the European response to Russian aggression, not just in terms of arms but also in shaping EU policy and sanctions against Moscow.
Western analysts believe Zelenskyy’s renewed outreach to Germany signals that Kyiv views Berlin as a key pillar in the European response to Russian aggression, not just in terms of arms but also in shaping EU policy and sanctions against Moscow.
Conclusion
President Zelenskyy’s visit to Berlin is part of Ukraine’s ongoing strategy to secure vital European support amid an increasingly complex and dangerous conflict with Russia. As military pressure mounts on Ukrainian forces, Kyiv is looking to allies like Germany not only for weapons but also for sustained political commitment. Whether Berlin steps up its role in the coming weeks could prove critical to Ukraine’s war effort and the broader European security landscape.
Source; Al Jazeera
