German top diplomat arrives in Kyiv

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock reaffirmed Berlin’s commitment to Ukraine during an unannounced visit to Kyiv on April 1.

According to Deutsche Welle the trip will likely be Baerbock's last as foreign minister, as Germany moves closer to swearing in a new government.

In a statement, the German FM committed to €130 million more in aid for Ukraine.

“Given the entrenched situation between the United States and Russia, it is absolutely pivotal for us Europeans to show that we stand alongside Ukraine without any ifs or buts and are supporting the country now more than ever. That is one reason why I have come to Ukraine today,” she said in a statement.

The German FM accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of “brutal aggression” against Ukraine, dragging both countries into a “cruel war of attrition.” She lauded the people of Ukraine for defending their independence and democracy with courage and determination even in the fourth year of the war.

“Germany will not abandon the people in Ukraine – our European neighbours. The decision of the current and future governing parties to provide an additional 3 billion euro for short-term support for Ukraine and to earmark a further 8.25 billion euro for military support up until 2029 reflects this firm solidarity and close connection across the party-political spectrum. The historic amendment to our constitution is likewise a clear sign that we are serious about continuing our support for Ukraine and serious about European security,” the German FM said.

She said Germany is making available a further 130 million euro in humanitarian assistance and stabilisation funds for Ukraine.