Germany Unveils 10-Point Defense Cooperation Plan with Ukraine

Germany has announced a comprehensive 10-point defense cooperation plan with Ukraine to deepen industrial, research, and procurement ties, unveiled during President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s visit to Berlin in December 2025. The initiative underscores Germany’s role as Ukraine’s largest European military and economic backer, as European leaders reaffirm their support for Kyiv amid global diplomatic efforts to end the war with Russia.

Central to the plan is the promotion of joint ventures and market integration between German and Ukrainian defense industries. The German government is considering the use of federal investment guarantees to support collaborative projects, aiming to boost the capacity and innovation of Ukraine’s defense sector. The plan also highlights the importance of integrating Ukrainian defense products into broader European supply chains, particularly for the production of advanced military systems.

A key component is the proposal for joint procurement of Ukrainian-made defense equipment, especially for the European Sky Shield Initiative. This includes the acquisition of interceptor drones and other defense technologies to safeguard NATO airspace. By incorporating Ukrainian innovation into its own defense architecture, Germany aims to strengthen mutual security and industrial collaboration.

To facilitate these efforts, the two countries will establish regular high-level consultations between their defense ministries. Additionally, a Ukrainian defense industry liaison office—known as the Ukraine Freedom House—will be set up in Berlin to strengthen business and strategic coordination. Germany also plans to expand the presence of its military attachés in Kyiv and intensify exchanges of defense experts, accelerating the implementation of joint initiatives.

The plan also includes anti-corruption measures, reflecting shared concerns following recent political scandals in Ukraine. These steps are intended to build transparency and accountability in the defense sector, aligning with broader Western expectations for good governance in post-conflict reconstruction.

In line with the broader goal of enhancing regional security, Germany emphasized that a strong Ukrainian defense industry is essential for deterring future Russian aggression. The document accompanying the plan underscores this principle, stating that such cooperation will not only bolster Kyiv’s military resilience but also serve as a stabilizing factor in the European security landscape.

The announcement comes as part of ongoing peace talks involving U.S. envoys, including Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. During Zelenskiy’s visit, European leaders sought to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine ahead of potential peace negotiations. While the plan does not include the deployment of German troops, it outlines a long-term strategy of support through industrial, technological, and diplomatic means.

Germany’s increased financial commitment to Ukraine is also reflected in the record €11.5 billion allocated in the 2026 federal budget for aid to Kyiv. This level of support underscores Berlin’s strategic vision for a secure and self-reliant Ukraine, integrated into European defense frameworks.