Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has praised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for the German sanctions imposed on Russia following the discovery of a drone carrying explosives at Leipzig airport.
"This is a further escalation on Russia's part, and it is important that Germany has responded," Zelensky said on social media on Wednesday.
Merz had informed him of the sanctions during a conversation, he said. At the same time, as the Ukrainian ambassador in Berlin had already done, he offered Germany Kiev's assistance with drone defence.
"For my part, I assured him that Ukraine is ready to help with expertise, experience or in other areas where Germany needs it," Zelensky said of his conversation with Merz.
The two also discussed a planned drone agreement. Ukraine and Germany are currently finalizing the text of the treaty. "This will certainly provide both Germany and Ukraine with additional means of protection," Zelensky said.
The Ukrainian president did not initially announce a date for the signing of the agreement. However, he and Merz had agreed to meet in person. Zelensky once again thanked Merz "for Germany's reliable support and its leading role in protecting the lives of Ukrainians."
New air-defence packages from Germany are due to arrive later this month, he said adding: "Thank you, Germany! Thank you, Friedrich!"
During the telephone call, Merz also informed Zelensky that the German government holds Russia responsible for the attempted attack in Leipzig, government spokesman Stefan Kornelius said.
Furthermore, Merz emphasized that Ukraine could rely on Germany's resolute continuation of civilian and military support. Zelensky thanked Merz for Germany's support, including in the area of air defence.
Merz is one of the most popular foreign politicians in Ukraine. Germany is now the world's largest supporter of Ukraine in its defensive struggle against Russia's war.
Russia denies any involvement with the drone incident and has described the explosive-laden drone found at Leipzig airport, with a damaged detonator, as a "cheap provocation." Moscow believes that behind the incident lie militaristic circles in the West with vested interests, who wish to justify higher defence spending in Germany and further billions for Ukraine. Moscow has said it will impose counter-sanctions.