Germany develops plan for long-term support of Ukraine with artillery ammunition - Spiegel

Spiegel reports, citing informed sources

"The federal government is preparing long-term support for Ukraine with artillery ammunition. At the end of last week, the defence ministry submitted a framework agreement with Rheinmetall for approval by the Bundestag Budget Committee. It provides for the supply of up to 333,000 rounds of 155 mm ammunition by 2029 to replenish its own stockpiles, as well as the long-term supply of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with much-needed howitzer ammunition," the publication said.

According to documents obtained by journalists, the first package of 20,000 shells for Ukraine for the next two years has already been agreed.

"The federal government will bear the cost of almost 60 million euros," the publication notes.

The media points out that Kyiv can order subsequent aid packages after receiving the first one, after discussing it with the federal government.

"The agreement itself also shows that no one in Berlin expects a quick end to the fighting in Ukraine," the newspaper concludes.

On 19 June, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Germany was increasing its capacity to produce and repair weapons for Ukraine.