German Foreign Minister Visits Kyiv, Reaffirms Military Support Amid Massive Russian Attacks

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul made an unannounced visit to Kyiv to reaffirm Germany's strong commitment to supporting Ukraine amid intensified Russian attacks. Wadephul emphasized that Germany will continue to help Ukraine defend itself with modern air defense systems, advanced weapons, and humanitarian and economic aid, highlighting that Ukraine's freedom and future are key priorities for German foreign policy. The visit follows a massive Russian assault involving hundreds of drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic missiles targeting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, prompting urgent calls from President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for increased Western military aid. Germany remains the second-largest military backer of Ukraine after the United States, although concerns about U.S. political gridlock have increased pressure on European nations to deepen their support. Wadephul criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for seeking Ukraine's capitulation through brutal bombing rather than negotiations, while also touring a site of a recent devastating Russian strike in Kyiv. His visit, accompanied by German defense industry representatives, signals Berlin's intention to play a stronger role in Ukraine’s defense during this critical phase of the conflict.