Germany seeks to boost Ukraine air defense ahead of winter, Brussels meeting

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced on September 29 that Berlin is conducting intensive negotiations with international partners to increase air defense supplies for Ukraine, which he identified as the country's "weakest point" in its defense. Merz stated he is personally engaging with multiple world leaders to secure additional air defense systems and emphasized the urgency of preparing Ukraine's energy infrastructure for the approaching winter amid continued Russian bombardment of civilian targets.

The discussions are part of broader preparations for the European Council meeting scheduled for October 15–16 in Brussels, where EU leaders are expected to discuss strengthened support for Ukraine. Merz described Russia's attacks on civilian infrastructure as "war crimes" occurring daily. He indicated that Germany is exploring concrete measures including budget support for Ukraine and coordinated procurement of air defense capabilities.

During a press conference in Berlin with visiting Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on September 29, Merz thanked Kazakhstan for diplomatic efforts, noting that Tokayev had discussed ending the war with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Merz said Russia's response to recent diplomatic contacts suggested it is not interested in "serious negotiations at this time." Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously stated the country faces a budget shortfall of approximately $27 billion for military expenditures.

Kazakhstan's Tokayev, in Berlin for a two-day official visit, stated he does not expect an immediate end to the conflict but views a "frozen" war as a potential first step toward eventual peace and diplomatic resolution. Tokayev reaffirmed Kazakhstan's commitment to the UN Charter, including the principle of territorial integrity for all states. The visit also focused on economic cooperation, with Kazakhstan serving as Germany's fourth-largest oil supplier.