Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, recently criticized the Ukrainian government, led by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, regarding what he perceives as inadequate defense procurement orders placed with German companies.
Speaking on the “Bild” podcast “Ronzheim,” Wadephul acknowledged that Germany is one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters in terms of both financial and military assistance. However, he stressed that the German defense industry should naturally benefit from this level of support.
He elaborated that he had shared this point with President Zelenskyy during a recent visit, affirming Germany’s commitment. But he stated that he must also account for the German taxpayers, emphasizing that at minimum, all acquisition measures must include the German defense sector.
The Foreign Minister expressed dissatisfaction with the current volume of orders coming into Germany, noting that Germany is not entirely satisfied with the situation. Consequently, he urged the Ukrainian government to review these procurement practices and ensure they improve.
Furthermore, Wadephul agreed with the demand put forward by CSU leader Markus Söder, advocating for Ukrainian men of military age currently residing in Germany to return to Ukraine. He suggested that the German government could assist Kyiv in initiating this process. By utilizing existing data-such as social benefit recipients, registration records, and residency status-the Ukrainian authorities could contact these individuals to encourage them to serve. While stressing that the return to Ukraine must be voluntary and “without coercion,” he felt this issue deserved thorough discussion and implementation.
