Germany’s Merz begins by saying Zelenskyy’s visit comes “at a critical moment” as Russian attacks on Ukraine continued with “undiminished – indeed, increasing – severity and ruthlessness.”

He says Ukraine “can continue to rely on Germany,” with more support from Berlin in the coming months, including on air defence, energy, and broader winter-related aid. Merz also warns that the outcome of the war in Ukraine “will determine European security for a long time to come.” He says Germany will be coordinating with France and the UK, and will host a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Berlin later this month. The German chancellor also talks of growing concerns about the broader effects of the continuing war, including a potential “global food crisis” triggered by Russia’s continued attacks on trading routes in the Black Sea. He says the upcoming Abu Dhabi talks are “the right step forward,” and Europe hopes to play its part. In the meantime, Berlin and partners will “increase the pre