German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Monday stated that Germany would have a “decisive role” in a new agreement reached between NATO and the United States to provide Ukraine with weapons to counter Russia’s aggression.
Trump’s Move Praised by German Chancellor Merz
US President Donald Trump has “taken an important step today”, Merz said in a statement from his office.
“President Trump and I have discussed this several times over the past few days. I assured him that Germany will play a decisive role,” Merz said.
NATO to Purchase US Weapons for Ukraine
Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on Monday revealed an agreement under which NATO nations will purchase arms from the United States such as Patriot anti-missile batteries and then forward them to Ukraine.
Rutte indicated Ukraine would receive “massive numbers” of weapons through the arrangement, which is to appease Trump’s repeated grievances that the US is overpaying to support Ukraine.
Merz Stresses Strategic Interests and Unity
“We are doing this in our own interests,” Merz said, adding that Germany was still working with its allies to “clarify the details” of the plan.
“Only in this way will pressure on Moscow grow to finally negotiate peace. Ultimately, we are showing that we are acting in unison as security partners,” he said.
Germany to Buy Patriot Systems Under New Deal
Speaking during a visit to Washington, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said Germany had offered to buy two Patriot systems under the deal.
“Germany will continue to play a leading and reliable role in the alliance (NATO),” Pistorius said.
