Germany will finance the production of Ukrainian long-range weapon systems, with no restrictions on the scope of their use, Ukrinform reported, citing German Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Berlin, BTA reported.
"Today we also discussed Germany's military support for Ukraine. I will continue to refrain from revealing details, but I can say this: we will continue and expand our military support so that Ukraine can continue to defend itself from Russian aggression - now and in the future," Merz assured.
He added: "Today our defense ministers will sign a memorandum of intent for the purchase of Ukrainian-made long-range weapon systems. There will be no restrictions on their range. This means that Ukraine will be able to fully exercise its right to self-defense, including striking military targets outside its own territory. This marks the beginning of a new form of defense-industrial cooperation between our countries, which has great potential."
At the same time, Merz avoided answering a question about whether the German government would provide Ukraine with Taurus cruise missiles.
"I mentioned that this afternoon a memorandum of understanding will be signed between the two defense ministers for closer cooperation in this area. Our goal is to enable the use of long-range weapons. We also want to ensure joint production, but we will not disclose details publicly - instead we will focus on deepening cooperation,“ the Chancellor said in response to a question about the "Taurus" missiles.
Merz emphasized: "Today we are taking the first step towards cooperation in the production of long-range weapons between Germany and Ukraine."
"This cooperation will also take place at the industrial level - both in Ukraine and in Germany. The details of this will not be made public for the time being," he added.
As previously reported, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Berlin today for a visit. His agenda includes talks with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, followed by a meeting with representatives of German business.
In the afternoon, President Zelensky is scheduled to meet with German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier for talks at the Bellevue Palace.