German Government Increases Military Aid to Ukraine
Date
3/30/2023 3:45:55 AM
(MENAFN) The German government is set to provide Ukraine with a significant increase in military aid, signaling its support for Kyiv in the long term amid tensions with Moscow. The Budget Committee of the German parliament, Bundestag, held discussions on Wednesday concerning the allocation of an additional euro12 billion (over USD13 billion) to Ukraine, which will cover not only the current year but also extend up to 2032. The move is seen as a clear message to Moscow about Germany's commitment to supporting Ukraine with arms.
Social Democratic Party lawmaker Andreas Schwarz expressed the government's willingness to provide aid to Ukraine as long as it is needed, stating in an interview with ARD, "We will help as long as Ukraine needs our help." Part of the funding will be used to acquire weapons for Ukraine directly, he added. The aid will reportedly focus on air defense, protective equipment, and armored vehicles to bolster Ukraine's military capabilities.
Aside from military aid to Ukraine, the budget committee's meeting is also crucial for the German army as it needs to order new weapons following the transfer of its arms to Ukraine, according to the ARD. The German government has plans to purchase 10 Type 2000 self-propelled howitzers and secure a purchase option for 18 more howitzers, among other things. Germany, in collaboration with the Netherlands, has already sold 14 units of this heavy artillery piece to Ukraine, further highlighting the country's commitment to supporting Ukraine's defense against potential aggression.
The decision to increase military aid to Ukraine has drawn mixed reactions, with some arguing that it could lead to a further escalation of tensions between Russia and the West. However, supporters of the move argue that it is necessary to ensure Ukraine's security and independence in the face of ongoing aggression from Russia. The move also underscores the importance of Germany's role in promoting stability and security in the region.
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