The Ukrainian army needs more weapons than originally expected for its defensive fight against Russia. That is why Germany wants to release additional money.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced that additional weapons aid worth 1.4 billion euros will be provided to Ukraine this year for its defensive struggle. Around 400 million euros should be financed from the defense budget, provided that parliament approves it next week, the SPD politician told the German Press Agency in Berlin.
One billion euros are available through so-called partner contributions, i.e. funds that Germany has raised from partners for aid to Ukraine. The “Spiegel” newspaper had previously reported on the package.
Without help, “fatal consequences” threaten
“Our aim is to help Ukraine, above all, to fend off the many Russian air strikes,” said Pistorius. “If we do not do this, it would have fatal consequences for the civilian population. Russia could destroy even more energy companies and force people to flee in the coming cold season.”
The money could also be used to repair destroyed weapons systems and supply spare parts. “Postponing this support would have fatal consequences for Ukraine.”
According to “Spiegel” information, the 50 planned individual items include an ammunition package for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank, another 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles, numerous reconnaissance and attack drones, and extensive spare parts packages for weapons systems that have already been handed over. According to an internal document, the projects are to be “mostly implemented this year and brought to bear on the battlefield.”
Finance Ministry also warns of threats to Ukraine’s defence
In a letter from the Ministry of Finance to the Bundestag’s Budget Committee, which the German Press Agency has seen, it says that the money will be used to purchase military equipment for the Ukrainian army – particularly air defense, drones and protective equipment. State Secretary of Finance Florian Toncar (FDP), who signed the letter, warns of the danger “that Ukraine will be defeated in its defense struggle without significantly increased material support.”
According to the Federal Ministry of Finance, around 1.42 billion euros are still needed to support Ukraine by the end of the year. This is 397 million euros more than provided for in the budget, which is why the approval of the Bundestag is required.
FDP MP Karsten Klein has already signaled his support for the project. “We will keep our word,” assured the member of the budget committee. “Ukraine urgently needs more military material and equipment to defend its freedom and our values.”
Source: Stern
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