Pistorius commits to providing additional arms to Ukraine.
The German Defence Minister, Boris Pistorius (SPD), has vowed to provide Ukraine with more weapons, including handguns and sniper rifles. Speaking during a joint visit to a military training ground in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Pistorius reassured that these deliveries would be fast-tracked. In addition to firearms, Ukraine will receive support for anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, and assistance in the development of drone technology and defensive mechanisms.
Pistorius also announced that, as part of a multi-national initiative between Germany, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, an extra 100 Patriot missile launchers would be provided. 32 launchers were already dispatched, while the remaining 68 will be sent in the following weeks.
Mentioning his commitment to provide aid, Pistorius reminded that he had promised extra assistance amounting to nearly 500 million euros just two weeks ago. This package includes self-propelled howitzers, 350 drone systems, 300 artillery barrels, and crucial ammunition for air defence.
Upon receiving the support, President Zelensky expressed his gratitude and presented awards and medals to some of the Ukrainian soldiers, who all have prior combat experience in the on-going war. A majority of the trainees at the base are from regions that are temporarily occupied in Ukraine.
"You're eager to train swiftly, return to your homes, and bring victory back to your homeland," said Zelensky, who had previously visited Berlin for a reconstruction conference for Ukraine and delivered a speech in the German parliament.
Read also:
Pistorius' decision to provide more weapons, including handguns and sniper rifles, is aimed at strengthening Ukraine's defense during the Ukraine war. Despite the provision of additional arms, the focus also extends to supporting Ukraine with anti-tank weapons, components for artillery ammunition, and assistance in the development of drone technology and defensive mechanisms.
