Germany and Ukraine signed defense cooperation agreements and launched plans for joint drone production during Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit to Berlin, Reuters reported on April 14. The plans include the creation of a joint venture to supply thousands of drones to Ukraine, alongside German funding for air defense systems and so-called deep-strike capabilities.

Germany is Ukraine's largest European military backer, having committed tens of billions of euros in aid since 2022. Ukraine has developed a highly innovative defense sector during the war, particularly in drone and long-range strike capabilities, but continues to face funding constraints that limit production. The agreements come as U.S.-led peace efforts have slowed amid the Middle East conflict, increasing the urgency for Europe to sustain support for Kyiv.