KYIV, Ukraine – Germany and Ukraine have signed a series of landmark defence agreements aimed at accelerating joint weapons production and deepening military cooperation, as both countries work to counter Russia’s continued aggression and strengthen Europe’s security architecture.
The agreements, signed during high-level talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, focus on co-investment in defence manufacturing within Ukraine — with a particular emphasis on drone technology, missile systems, and long-range capabilities.
“Germany stands as one of our strongest partners in preserving the rules-based international order,” Zelensky said in a statement. “Together, we are ensuring that our soldiers have the tools they need to defend lives, and that Russian aggression comes at a growing cost.”
The new bilateral pacts come as Ukraine pushes for a tougher global stance on Russia.
Zelensky reiterated that there should be no preconditions for a ceasefire, and criticized Moscow for stalling negotiations while continuing to launch missile and drone attacks against civilian infrastructure.
“For any real diplomacy to begin, Russia must abandon its criminal desire to destroy lives,” Zelensky said. “Until then, sanctions must be intensified — this war must become painful for the Kremlin.”
Our government representatives signed agreements on cooperation in construction and industrial development. We also agreed today to resume the intergovernmental format between Ukraine and Germany — at our level, the level of the President and the Chancellor — to ensure that our
Germany’s growing role in Ukraine’s defence effort has already proved critical, especially in strengthening air defence systems.
German-supplied systems have helped protect major cities from frequent Russian aerial bombardments, saving countless lives.
The latest agreements also reflect a broader shift toward industrial cooperation.
Under the new framework, Berlin will support the development of Ukraine’s domestic defence sector, including infrastructure, construction, and advanced weapons manufacturing.
The move is expected to improve Ukraine’s battlefield resilience while fostering long-term economic and security ties.
The leaders also agreed to revive a high-level intergovernmental dialogue format, aimed at coordinating deeper cooperation between the two countries on both defence and reconstruction efforts.
Zelensky again called on allies to redirect frozen Russian assets toward rebuilding Ukraine and reinforcing its military capacity.
“This is about ensuring not just our survival, but our victory — and the stability of all Europe,” he said.
The agreements mark a strategic pivot as Ukraine seeks not only military aid but long-term investment in self-sufficiency.
For Germany, the pact cements its place as a leading European partner in resisting Russian expansionism and supporting Ukrainian sovereignty.
