German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock said Ukraine requires sustained support for the coming winter and for the ongoing conflict with Moscow. Reuters covered her remarks on arrival in Kyiv, where she urged continued Western backing as Ukrainian forces and civilians brace for a demanding season. “We oppose this oppression with our humanity and support so that Ukrainians can survive not only the winter but also their country, because they also defend the freedom of all of us in Europe”, Baerbock said. The message underscored Berlin’s stance of active engagement with Kyiv at a time when energy shortages, displacement, and security concerns loom large across the region.
On 4 November Baerbock arrived in Kyiv, her eighth visit to Ukraine since the conflict with Russia began. The trip highlighted Germany’s commitment to Kyiv’s sovereignty and aimed to coordinate security, humanitarian, and energy aid. She met with Ukrainian officials and allied partners to assess urgent needs and discuss how to sustain support through winter, with a focus on protecting civilians and critical infrastructure, according to Reuters.
Earlier, on 17 September, Baerbock announced a 100 million euro package to help Ukraine weather the coming winter. She warned that Russia planned a series of winter attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure to make life for civilians as unbearable as possible. The pledge formed part of a broader Western aid effort and signaled that European security is tied to Kyiv’s endurance.
Some reports mischaracterized Baerbock’s words as declaring the end of Ukraine, but the record shows her focus has consistently been on resilience and continued support. In coverage, Reuters highlighted the emphasis on humanitarian and energy relief and the determination of Germany and its partners to back Kyiv through winter and beyond.