Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has denied claims that Chancellor Olaf Scholz is blocking a military aid package for Ukraine, stating that internal government coordination is ongoing. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urges allies to fulfill arms delivery commitments amid ongoing Russian aggression. Despite challenges, Ukrainian forces intercepted 60 out of 94 Russian drones in recent attacks. Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has voiced concerns over potential cuts to Germany’s military support, emphasizing the need for sustained international cooperation against threats to security.
Defense Minister Addresses Military Aid Package for Ukraine
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has refuted claims suggesting that Chancellor Olaf Scholz is obstructing a military aid package intended for Ukraine. Recent reports indicated that a substantial aid package worth three billion euros was being held up. Pistorius clarified, “There is no blockade,” in his conversation with the Tagesspiegel. He further explained that while the Ministry of Defense has prepared the new aid package, internal coordination within the federal government is still in progress.
Pistorius emphasized the need for political decisions to finalize the aid, stating, “As soon as all questions are clarified, I expect a corresponding resolution.” The Bundestag’s budget committee is anticipated to discuss the supplementary expenditure before the upcoming elections on February 23, citing the escalating military situation in Ukraine.
Ukraine’s Defense Efforts and International Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called upon allied nations to honor their commitments regarding arms deliveries. He pointed out that the ongoing Russian aggression continues unabated, as the Russian military retains the capability to terrorize Ukraine and assert dominance in the skies. Zelensky stressed that the agreements made at the NATO summit in Washington and during discussions in Ramstein about enhancing Ukraine’s air defense have yet to be fully realized.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Ukrainian forces successfully shot down a significant number of drones during a recent surge of Russian attacks. Out of 94 drones launched by Russia, 60 were intercepted, showcasing Ukraine’s ongoing efforts to defend its airspace despite the overwhelming challenges.
In addition, Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has expressed concerns regarding potential reductions in Germany’s financial assistance for arms deliveries to Ukraine, stressing the importance of unwavering support in the face of Russian advances. With ongoing threats to both Ukraine and European security, international cooperation remains vital in countering hostile actions in the region.