Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha and German Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul visited Odessa as part of the second day of the German foreign minister’s working visit to Ukraine.
In Odessa, the foreign ministers discussed strengthening Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, further investments in joint arms production, enhancing international support for the Odessa region and its residents amid Russian terrorist strikes, and prospects for cooperation between German and Ukrainian regions.
The ministers began their visit by jointly honoring the memory of Ukrainian defenders who died defending Ukraine from Russian aggression.
The heads of the foreign ministries of Ukraine and Germany also visited the Odessa port, where they inspected the aftermath of Russian strikes and received a briefing on the current security situation in the region.
“You have seen yet another clear proof that Russia continues to undermine global food security. Providing Ukraine with additional air defense systems, developing joint weapon production with partners, and Ukrainian manufacturing will allow us to save more lives and maintain global food stability in the interest of the entire international community. In this context, Ukraine counts on Germany’s far-reaching leadership, systematic support, and determination,” Andriy Sybiha emphasized.
During his visit to Odessa port, Johann Wadephul stressed that such brutal attacks occurring in Europe in the 21st century pose a challenge for Germany and the entire European community.
The foreign ministers of Ukraine and Germany held a separate meeting with the UN World Food Programme Representative in Ukraine, Richard Reagan. They discussed Ukraine’s further role in protecting global food security and the humanitarian efforts of the WFP.
Andriy Sybiha especially noted Germany’s significant financial contribution to the “Grain from Ukraine” program and the coordination efforts of the UN World Food Programme aimed at delivering Ukrainian grain to countries facing fragile humanitarian situations.
“Thanks to the financial support for the humanitarian initiative of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, ‘Grain from Ukraine,’ from Germany and international partners, our country is increasing its capacities. This enables Ukraine to export even more grain and food to regions most in need and effectively stabilize the global food situation,” the Ukrainian Foreign Minister emphasized.
Sybiha expressed special gratitude to the leadership of the UN World Food Programme in Ukraine for purchasing food within the country to support other countries. According to him, this is an effective way to support Ukrainian producers and the Ukrainian economy. He also thanked them separately for important humanitarian aid to Ukrainian citizens.
“The ‘Grain from Ukraine’ initiative is a true win-win story — for Ukraine, Germany, and dozens of countries receiving food within this important humanitarian program,” the German Foreign Minister stressed.
The foreign ministers also reviewed damage to other civilian infrastructure in the city.
“We are grateful to Germany for its unwavering support and strengthening of Ukraine’s defense capabilities. German weapons help protect Ukrainian lives and our economy daily from Russian aerial terror. At the same time, we need more air defense systems to protect Ukrainian regions and cities, including Odessa,” Andriy Sybiga stated.
The German Foreign Minister noted the courage and resilience of the Ukrainian people and assured strong and long-term support from Germany to Ukraine.
The ministers also toured Odessa’s historic center, noting its unique spirit, national-cultural diversity, and outstanding European heritage.
The foreign ministers discussed the current situation in the region and the priority needs of the people with the head of the Odessa Regional Military Administration, Oleh Kiper. They also discussed opportunities for additional international support amid Russian terror and expressed gratitude for the hospitality and resilience of the Odessa region under difficult conditions of full-scale Russian aggression.
