Full Breakdown
German Foreign Minister Calls for Greater Ukrainian Procurement of German Arms
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Appeal to Ukraine
On September 8, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul told *Bild* that Ukraine should increase purchases from German defence firms. He argued that Berlin’s status as Kyiv’s largest donor gives it a legitimate expectation that German companies be involved in all procurement activities. He added that the current volume of German-origin orders received from Ukraine is “not entirely satisfactory.”
Context of German-Ukrainian Defence Cooperation
Wadephul recalled assuring President Volodymyr Zelenskiy during a visit last month that Germany would continue to back Ukraine’s defence against Russia. Germany has consistently positioned itself as a primary supplier of military aid to Kyiv, a stance that underpins the minister’s request for deeper commercial engagement between the two partners.
Recent Russia-Germany Tensions
The minister’s remarks came shortly after Germany accused Russia of orchestrating an attempted drone attack on Leipzig/Halle airport in August. Wadephul dismissed Lavrov’s comments, stating that Germany “had to react” and that the response was clear to everyone.
Additional Policy Remarks on Ukrainian Residents in Germany
Wadephul also addressed the presence of Ukrainian men of military-age residing in Germany, saying they should return to Ukraine. He offered German authorities’ assistance in identifying such individuals, noting that the government can determine who lives in Germany, receives social-security benefits, or holds residence status.
These statements reflect Berlin’s effort to align its political support for Ukraine with tangible economic benefits for its defence sector, while navigating heightened diplomatic friction with Russia.
