German Defense Minister Pistorius Arrives in Kyiv With Unannounced Visit

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has arrived in Kyiv on an unannounced visit, according to Germany’s news agency DPA on January 14.

The report states that Pistorius traveled to Ukraine for talks with the Ukrainian government. The visit was kept confidential for security reasons.

“This trip is important to show that we remain committed to actively supporting Ukraine. It’s a signal that Germany, as NATO’s largest European member, stands firmly with Ukraine—not alone, but together with the ‘Big Five’ and many other allies,” the Minister explained.

Prior to his arrival in Kyiv, Pistorius held discussions in Warsaw with his counterparts from Poland, France, Italy, and Germany about further aid to Ukraine.

“If funding and production capacities are available, Ukraine will be the fastest to equip its forces with the necessary materials and weapons,” Pistorius stated during the talks in Poland.

Previously on January 13, Germany handed over the first of 54 RCH 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine. The delivery took place in Kassel, at the Rheinmetall plant, where the artillery systems are produced.