German Finance Minister and Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil arrived in Ukraine’s capital on 25 August for an unannounced visit, delivering a direct message to Russian President Vladimir Putin about Germany’s unwavering support for Ukraine.
“Putin should have no illusions that Germany’s support for Ukraine could crumble,” Klingbeil said upon his arrival in Kyiv, according to Reuters. “On the contrary: We remain Ukraine’s second-largest supporter worldwide and the largest in Europe.”
The Social Democratic Party leader, whose party serves as the junior partner in Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s conservative-led coalition government, emphasized Germany’s commitment to Ukraine. “Ukraine can continue to rely on Germany,” Klingbeil stated.
Germany has provided 50.5 billion euros ($59.18 billion) in support to Ukraine since Russia’s invasion began in February 2022, according to Klingbeil’s ministry.
The visit comes as international discussions intensify around potential peace negotiations for what Klingbeil described as “Europe’s deadliest war in 80 years.” Klingbeil called on Putin to demonstrate interest in a peace process but outlined specific conditions for any settlement.
“Ukraine needed to be involved in the talks and there needed to be a ceasefire and reliable security guarantees for a lasting peace,” Klingbeil said. “To this end, we are coordinating closely internationally.”
The German official’s visit coincides with growing international debate over security arrangements for Ukraine following any potential peace deal. French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have both supported troop deployments as part of a coalition framework, while Chancellor Merz has signaled openness to German participation despite anticipated political opposition.
President Donald Trump’s pressure for a quick resolution to the conflict has raised concerns in Kyiv and among its allies about potential forced agreements favoring Russian terms, Reuters reports.
The unannounced nature of Klingbeil’s visit underscores Germany’s diplomatic engagement at a critical juncture in the war.