Under increasing pressure to send weapons to Ukraine, Germany said Wednesday that it will supply Kyiv with 5,000 military helmets, an offer that Ukrainian officials say is not enough.
Andriy Melnyk, the Ukrainian ambassador in Berlin, said he appreciated the “symbolic gesture” but that it isn’t enough. “What we need the most are defensive weapons,” he said.
The mayor Kyiv took a stronger tone and said the German offer was a “joke” that left him “speechless. “What kind of support will Germany send next? Pillows?” said Mayor Vitali Klitschko.
Amid US claims that Russia is planning to invade Ukraine, Kyiv has been receiving a steady flow of weapons from the US and other NATO allies. Germany’s new government said in its coalition agreement that it would not send weapons to potential conflict zones, and the Germans are sticking to the policy.
The German position has some NATO allies frustrated, and US media outlets are questioning why Berlin isn’t eager to play along. The New York Times published an article Tuesday titled “Where Is Germany in the Ukraine Standoff? Its Allies Wonder.”
German officials have cited historical reasons for their hesitance to arm Ukraine. Another reason is that Berlin wants the Nord Stream 2 pipeline that connects Russia and Germany to finally start flowing with gas.
Along with France, Germany brokered talks between Ukraine and Russia on Wednesday. The negotiations concluded with both sides agreeing that the Donbas ceasefire must be upheld.
Germany knows what happens if it’s required to impose sanctions on Russia: its economy implodes.
Yes, Germany knows she ‘s the object (NATO couldn’t care less for Ukraine) of Washington’s desire, to be prized free of Russia and raped, …again.
“Andriy Melnyk, the Ukrainian ambassador in Berlin, said he appreciated the “symbolic gesture” but that it isn’t enough. “What we need the most are defensive weapons,” he said.”
Washington is more than willing to supply weapons. I suggest Ms. Melnyk read between the lines per the German response.
“Fine- you insult us over our offer of helmets, so now you get NOTHING. NADA. ZIP. You’re on your own.” – Me, if I were Germany’s top dog.
Germany seems to be paralysed with fear of offending the USA to let the regulators start the flow. It is waiting for you! If not, lots of other customers are waiting.
Germany has already sent field hospitals to poor darling Ukraine, country 404.
No “Pickelhauben”?
I think 5,000 helmets was a very generous offer. As long as it includes the liner and the steel pot. 🙂
Germany’s no weapons policy seems highly suspect when you realize they have no problem handing out weapons in the rest of the world especially in the middle east.