As of: February 23, 2024, 2:19 p.m
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Press
Split
Oleksii Makeiev, the Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, (lr), Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) observe a tank exercise with binoculars at the Klietz military training area.
© Klaus-Dietmar Gabbert/dpa
The Russian attack on Ukraine began two years ago.
Ukrainian soldiers are also being trained in Germany as part of a European mission.
The support should continue.
Klietz - According to the Federal Government's wishes, Ukrainian soldiers should continue to be trained in Germany to defend their country against Russia's war of aggression.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) said on Friday at the Klietz military training area on the border of Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg that they were interested in extending the mandate for the training mission beyond November.
There is a location for training Ukrainian soldiers in Klietz.
Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier said during the visit: “10,000 Ukrainian soldiers were trained last year and 10,000 will be trained this year, in 2024.” Responsibility for the atrocities and bloodshed lies with Russia and the political system there Guide.
“Russia wants to take away Ukraine’s independence and freedom.
“Russia is committing land grabs in Ukraine and Russia is violating fundamental principles of international law,” said Steinmeier.
“In such a situation there should be no doubt where we, where our country, where Germany stands - on the side of Ukraine.
That’s where we are and that’s where we’ll stay.”
Pistorius said about the extension of the mandate: “We will discuss this in coordination with our partners, first of all with Ukraine, but then of course also with the European partners, because this is a mission of the European Union.
But yes, we have an interest in it and unfortunately, one has to say, the need will undoubtedly still be there at the end of the year.
The SPD politician added: “Our responsibility is to stand by Ukraine - as long as it is necessary.” It is about supporting a country in Europe that is fighting a fight for survival against an imperialist aggressor.
“All help matters, in every form, not just material.” Germany provides this on a considerable scale.
Training in particular also plays a central role for Ukraine, from the training of sergeants, officers and tank crews to training in weapons systems.
The Ukrainian ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev, expressed gratitude.
“Generations of Ukrainians will thank the German taxpayers, the German soldiers and the German people for this effort.”
The Federal President was shown a combat exercise with tanks in Klietz, as well as various skills of logisticians in loading, repairing and refueling tanks.
Steinmeier also held discussions with German and Ukrainian soldiers as well as with trainers.
In six weeks of training, Ukrainians are made fit to handle the Leopard tanks.
dpa