Statement on Ukraine from German Minister Baerbock: 'It needs more air defense'

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said that Ukraine urgently needs more air defense to protect itself from Russian attacks.

In a statement made before her visit to Kyiv, Annalena Baerbock said, "Ukraine urgently needs more air defense to protect itself from Russia's missile and drone attacks."

Reminding that they have launched a global initiative for more air defense systems for Ukraine together with Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Baerbock stated the following:

"We have raised approximately 1 billion euros so far to provide additional support to Ukrainian air defense forces, and we are working very hard to increase this. We are leaving no stone unturned. We have even taken action for an additional air defense system, a Patriot unit."

Noting that efforts must be made for Ukraine to survive and for Ukrainians to be able to lead a life where they can determine their own future, Baerbock noted that this is the only way Russia can be prevented from advancing further toward Western borders.

Stating that Ukraine is fighting for both its own freedom and the freedom of all of Europe, Baerbock said, "The issue of Ukraine's EU membership is the necessary geopolitical consequence of this war that Russia is waging in violation of international law."

Pointing out that the Ukraine Recovery Conference will be held in Berlin in June, Baerbock said, "Together with our partners around the world and a strong alliance consisting of the business world, civil society, and local governments, we will make a long-term investment in Ukraine's future."

News Source: AA