Steinmeier in Kyiv: Germany to additionally provide Ukraine with 2 MARS systems, 4 howitzers and new air defense systems

Interfax-Ukraine reports.

"2 MARS systems and 4 howitzers will be delivered soon", Steinmeier said at a briefing in Kyiv after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Speaking about ways to find peace in Ukraine, he said, addressing Zelenskyy: "I agree with you that a just peace is needed. The peace that Putin wants can cause a new war."

The office of the President of Ukraine noted that Zelenskyy discussed many important topics with Steinmeier. Financial and further political assistance, reconstruction of Ukraine, issues of European and Euro-Atlantic integration, global food security.  And, of course, the defense needs of Ukraine. In particular, this applies to artillery systems, armored vehicles and other weapons.

"Also, today, for the first time in the history of our bilateral relations, we approved the joint statement of the presidents. In particular, it establishes personal patronage of President Steinmeier over the process of restoration of Chernihiv region", the leader of Ukraine noted.

• Steinmeier unexpectedly arrived in Kyiv on Tuesday morning. German president arrived on the morning train from Ukrzaliznytsia, which originally greeted him with postcards and a bouquet of irises (in gratitude for the air defense system of the same name). 

• He intended to meet with Zelenskyy in Kyiv last Thursday. However, he postponed the trip because German authorities had security concerns. 

• Steinmeier, during a visit to Koryukivka in Chernihiv region, was forced to go to a bomb shelter due to an air raid alert warning, where he talked with ordinary Chernihiv residents.