New Coalition in Germany: Plans and Support for Ukraine

On April 9, the leaders of the newly formed German coalition, Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Lars Klingbeil (SPD), unveiled their joint initiatives.

This coalition was established following the February elections, where the pro-Ukrainian CDU emerged victorious, surpassing the pro-Russian far-right party «Alternative for Germany».

Merz and his vision for supporting Ukraine: how Germany's policy will change

Germany remains a crucial ally for Ukraine, ranking second in individual contributions, according to the Kiel Institute. In their 144-page coalition agreement, CDU and SPD outlined their positions regarding Ukraine as follows:

A strong, democratic Ukraine is essential for Germany's geopolitical stability and security.

Germany will continue providing financial, military, and political support to Ukraine.

Alongside its partners, Germany will develop a strategy for achieving sustainable peace, ensuring a strong position for Ukraine. This strategy will include material and political security guarantees.

Germany will engage in the reconstruction of Ukraine and explore opportunities for utilizing frozen Russian assets for financial and military support.

Germany supports Ukraine's NATO membership perspective, as reaffirmed at the NATO summit in Washington.

Germany also backs the establishment of a special tribunal for the proper prosecution and punishment of the crime of aggression against Ukraine.

During his election campaign, Friedrich Merz promised to support Ukraine, a commitment reflected in the coalition agreement, which also includes plans to strengthen the German military. In March, the German parliament approved a military aid package for Ukraine amounting to 3 billion euros.

The coalition agreement requires approval from SPD members and high-ranking CDU/CSU representatives. Should it be approved, Merz will be sworn in as chancellor in the Bundestag in early May.