Visit to Ukraine: Wadephul Promises Further Humanitarian Aid
During his visit to the capital Kyiv, Federal Foreign Minister Wadephul pledged an additional 50 million euros in humanitarian aid to Ukraine. He described the ongoing Russian attacks on the country as "indiscriminate murder of civilians."
Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (CDU) pledged a further 50 million euros for humanitarian purposes to Ukraine during his visit to the capital Kyiv.
Against the backdrop of ongoing Russian attacks on the country, Wadephul accused Russia of "indiscriminate murder of civilians." The summer months of July and August had been the deadliest for the Ukrainian civilian population in more than four years. "Never before had Russia fired more missiles at its neighboring country," he said.
Moscow's goal is to destroy the foundations of life. Russia is doing "everything to once again use winter as a weapon," Wadephul said at a press conference with his Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Sybiha.
50 Million Euros for Winter Aid
Germany would therefore support Ukraine in preparing for the coming winter. According to Wadephul, the additional 50 million euros in German aid will go to UN organizations and non-governmental organizations that support people particularly in frontline areas. The money is intended to be used, among other things, to repair homes and to provide mobile sanitation facilities and heating equipment.
Germany will also contribute a further ten million euros to a NATO fund, which would be used to finance energy supplies, medical equipment and drone defense systems, among other things.
Talks on Additional Air Defense
Air defense remains particularly urgent. In light of the Russian attacks with ballistic missiles and cruise missiles, it is clear: "It is not enough," Wadephul said. He is holding talks with European and non-European partners about additional systems. "This is far from a commitment, but I am confident that we can achieve something."
Meanwhile, French President Macron announced that his country would deliver additional interceptor missiles for air defense. It is "crucial to give Ukraine all the necessary means to defend its airspace and repel this aggression," he stated following a phone call with Zelenskyy. The French president also called on other countries to provide further weapons deliveries to Ukraine.
Hope for an Active US Negotiating Role
Wadephul announced that he intends to speak with US Secretary of State Rubio at the beginning of the week. He is counting on "the US continuing to be willing to play an active role here in negotiations with Ukraine as well." At the same time, all possibilities for talks must be exhausted. "I believe we need the willingness to take unconventional paths as well. We must try to initiate talks through every possible channel," Wadephul said. "This is currently being blocked by Moscow."
Ukrainian chief diplomat Sybiha also called for intensified diplomatic efforts. "Unfortunately, they are currently on ice. We need more active involvement from the American side," said Sybiha.
Wadephul Welcomes Preparation of Further EU Sanctions
Both ministers also discussed new sanctions against Russia, according to their own statements. Sybiha spoke of a package of special measures aimed at restricting Russia's ability to produce ballistic missiles as much as possible.
Wadephul welcomed the proposal by EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas to prepare further sanctions. By expanding the sanctions lists, the EU wants to "combat Putin's war machine in a very targeted and large-scale manner."
Mutual attacks continue
While Wadephul was visiting, the mutual attacks continued. Seven people were killed in attacks in Ukraine, four in Russia and two on the Crimean peninsula annexed by Russia.
Wadephul, who later met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for talks, arrived in Kyiv just a few hours after the attack on a shopping center in Kryvyi Rih, in which at least 16 people were killed and 120 others injured on Friday, according to authorities. Four people were still reported missing on Saturday.
Wadephul's visit took place shortly before Ukraine's 35th Independence Day on Monday. Ukraine and key European allies plan to hold a video conference that day to discuss further pressure on Russia to end the war.
