Zelenskyy says Ukraine finalizing 'Drone Deal' with Germany

Ukraine and Germany finalize defense pact

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Wednesday that his country is finalizing the text of a comprehensive defense agreement with Germany following a phone call with Chancellor Friedrich Merz. The two leaders discussed the suspected Russian drone incident at Leipzig Airport on Aug. 4, which Berlin has officially blamed on Moscow, with Zelenskyy describing the event as "another Russian escalation" during the conversation.

"Our teams are already finalizing the text of the Drone Deal, and this will, among other things, definitely provide both Germany and Ukraine with additional defense capabilities," Zelenskyy said, noting that they discussed the substance of the agreement and anticipated signing date. He added that he assured Merz Ukraine stands ready to assist Germany with expertise and experience in drone defense, offering support in other technical areas where Berlin may need it.

Berlin blames Moscow for airport incident

Germany on Tuesday formally accused Russia of attempting to attack Leipzig Airport using a drone and announced a series of diplomatic sanctions against Moscow. The measures include closing the Russian Consulate General in Bonn by Sept. 18, terminating a 2011 bilateral agreement on cultural and information centers, and forcing the closure of the Russian House in Berlin, according to the German government.

Moscow has rejected the accusations, with Russian Ambassador to Germany Sergey Nechayev describing the measures as "unsubstantiated, absurd, and illogical." Nechayev warned that the "unprecedented escalation" would not remain without consequences, signaling potential Russian retaliation for Berlin's actions.

Expanding drone alliances

Zelenskyy and Merz agreed to meet in person to further strengthen bilateral cooperation, with the Ukrainian president thanking the chancellor for Berlin's steadfast support and leadership in protecting the lives of Ukrainians. Germany has pledged additional military assistance, with Zelenskyy announcing that new air defense packages from Germany will arrive this month.

Ukraine has concluded drone deals with nine countries to date, Zelenskyy said last month, adding that another 15 such agreements are currently under development. These pacts aim to establish comprehensive collaboration in security and defense capabilities among participating nations.