EUR1.1bn Security Agreement Ties Germany Into LT Defence Cooperation

Ukraine and Germany have signed a bilateral security agreement, making this the second such document initialed in two days following the signing of a similar agreement between Ukraine and France on 15 Feb. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz States that the deal is applicable to both the situation at present but also securing Ukraine's future after an eventual ceasefire. Claims that the 'weapons production capacity we are hiking for Ukraine will also strengthen our security'. Adds that the US, 'is a big power, and its support for Ukraine is essential.'

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says hes is sure Ukraine will become a member of NATO in the end, and that his gov't will do everything to strengthen Ukraine 'from summit to summit'. Says he is 'hopeful' that US aid will go to Ukraine 'despite all the complications'.
• Some sections of the agreement, valid for 10years: Germany underlines its intention to: provide long-term military support to the Ukrainian security and defence forces to fully restore Ukraine's territorial integrity within its internationally-recognised borders; equip and train Ukraine's future forces w/capabilities they need...Russian sovereign assets should remain immobilised until Russia has paid for the damage it has caused to Ukraine...Germany intends to support Ukraine's efforts towarda aligning with EU single market with goal of EU accession...participants will continued working to ensure that the costs to Russia for its aggression continue to rise, including through sanctions and export controls.
• RTE reports "The deal is worth €1.13 billion and focuses on air defence and artillery, according to the defence ministry in Berlin."