Zelensky, Merz agree on 1.3-billion euro support package for Ukraine

KYIV: Ukraine will receive a new support package from Germany worth more than 1.3 billion euros (1.46 billion US dollars), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced following his meeting here with visiting German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

"It includes weapons that will help us now, as well as support for our energy sector ahead of winter -- an important energy package," Zelensky said on X, noting that he particularly discussed with Merz the need for air defence.

Zelensky said Ukraine and Germany currently have 15 agreements worth more than 8.5 billion euros.

The documents cover security cooperation, Ukraine's orders for German industry, and joint projects within Ukraine, among other areas, Zelensky said.

According to the German government, the new military aid package focuses primarily on air defence capabilities, including the joint production of interceptors against jet-powered drones.

Merz noted that recent technical breakthroughs in this area would help swiftly strengthen Ukrainian air defences.

Germany will also provide long-range weapons, satellite technology and combat drones for Ukraine. In addition, Germany will offer around 350 million euros (394 million dollars) to repair Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of the coming winter. This is Merz's second visit to Kyiv since he took office last year. (IANS)

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