Germany’s newly appointed foreign minister, Jo Wadephul, arrived in Kyiv on July 1 for his first overseas visit in the new role, according to DW.
Ahead of his arrival, he recorded a video message on the train to Ukraine, highlighting the importance of being physically present in Kyiv.
“I want to show Ukrainians: we stand with you, you are not alone,” Wadephul emphasized.
He added that the main goal of his visit is to demonstrate solidarity and to reassure Ukraine of Germany’s continued support, especially against the backdrop of ongoing Russian missile strikes and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities.
The minister also announced that he would discuss military aid and the rebuilding of destroyed infrastructure with Ukrainian leadership. According to him, Germany intends to continue supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts, reconstruction, and progress toward European Union membership.
This is Wadephul’s first international trip as Germany’s foreign minister, after he was appointed following the recent resignation of Annalena Baerbock.