German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul arrived in Kyiv on Monday, promising “reliable means” for Ukraine to keep defending itself against Russia and vowing that Germany and Europe “will not leave Ukraine alone.”
“President Vladimir Putin wants Ukraine to capitulate,” Wadephul told reporters on arrival. “We will do everything so Ukraine can defend itself effectively.”
Ukraine’s fight, he said, will decide “whether our Europe remains a place that values freedom and human dignity, or a continent where violence moves borders.” He praised Ukrainians’ “incredible courage, strength and resilience” under relentless Russian bombardment of cities such as Kyiv, Odesa and Dnipro.
Russia is betting that European backing will fade, Wadephul added, but Berlin will continue supplying modern air-defense systems, other weapons, and humanitarian and economic aid. Sanctions on Moscow will remain “as long as Putin maintains his maximalist demands,” he said.
Wadephul argued that Kyiv has proved willing to end the war through “serious negotiations,” while the Kremlin seeks only Ukraine’s surrender.
Later in the day, the minister is scheduled to meet Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and is expected to be received by President Volodymyr Zelensky.
(jh)
Source: PAP