Kyiv (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Germany’s Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil on Monday urged “reliable security guarantees” for Kyiv once the confrontation with Moscow concludes, as he visited Ukraine.
German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil reiterated Germany’s support for Ukraine in its effort to defend itself against the invasion of Russia. Klingbeil, upon showing up unannounced in Kyiv, indicated he would likely discuss serious security guarantees to bring an end to the war that has lasted almost three years.
How is Berlin coordinating with international partners on guarantees?
The vice chancellor noted that Berlin is working closely with its international partners on the issue and guaranteed that Germany will fulfil its obligations. Klingbeil asked for a ceasefire and stressed the need for “reliable security guarantees to achieve lasting peace for Ukraine.”
“In close coordination with (Friedrich Merz), I am seeking to exchange ideas on how Germany can best support Ukraine in a possible peace process,”
The leaders said, according to a statement.
“We are closely coordinating internationally,”
He said.
“Germany will live up to its responsibility.”
What message did Klingbeil send to President Putin about Germany’s stance?
“Putin should have no illusions that Germany’s support for Ukraine could crumble,”
Stated Klingbeil.
“On the contrary: We remain Ukraine’s second-largest supporter worldwide and the largest in Europe. Ukraine can continue to rely on Germany.”
Klingbeil urged Putin to show a commitment to peace and highlighted the importance of Ukraine taking part in negotiations. He called for a ceasefire and dependable security assurances to achieve lasting peace.
When did the German chancellor and Ukrainian president meet?
Moreover, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also met in Berlin on August 13, 2025. They held an expanded-format discussion on Ukraine’s defence needs, security guarantees, and plans for strengthening Ukraine’s air defence, among other key issues related to the ongoing conflict and peace efforts.