Kyiv is increasingly pressing Berlin to assume a more assertive leadership role in efforts to conclude the ongoing Russian aggression, with Ukrainian Ambassador Oleksiy Makeyev publicly praising the German government’s recent shift in approach. In remarks delivered to the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Makeyev highlighted Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s personal involvement in establishing a mechanism to utilize frozen Russian assets, expressing optimism about imminent approval thanks to German backing.
The ambassador’s comments reflect a complex interplay between Ukrainian dependence on Western support and a desire for more proactive engagement from key allies. While acknowledging past hesitations, Makeyev’s statements suggest Kyiv views the current German administration as demonstrating a willingness to move beyond cautious diplomacy.
Beyond the asset utilization mechanism, Makeyev emphasized the critical importance of German support for Ukraine’s energy sector, particularly in preparation for the upcoming winter months, noting Russia’s continued strategy of weaponizing energy supplies. The anticipated visit of Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katheine Reiche to Kyiv this Friday, accompanied by representatives from German arms manufacturers, served as a tangible manifestation of this evolving partnership. Reiche’s agenda, according to Makeyev, prioritizes direct cooperation with Ukrainian producers and the joint development of weapons systems – a move signalling a deeper integration of the two nations’ defence industries.
Makeyev also proposed a reciprocal exchange of expertise, arguing that the Bundeswehr could benefit from the operational lessons learned by Ukrainian forces, while German industry could accelerate its production processes and German society could strengthen its resilience from Ukrainian experience. He further pointed to potential synergies in digitalization efforts. The ambassador framed Germany’s support for Ukraine as a crucial investment not only in Ukrainian security but also in the broader European security landscape, signaling a desire for a long-term strategic partnership with tangible benefits for both nations. This strategy positions Germany’s actions, or lack thereof, under intense scrutiny, particularly concerning the delicate balance between aiding Kyiv and managing domestic political pressures.