Conference in Berlin Focuses on Providing Financial and Military Assistance to Ukraine

The Berlin Ukraine Reconstruction Conference took place to bring together various actors to discuss the reconstruction of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky requested support for air defense and energy supplies at the event. This is the third Ukraine Reconstruction Conference, following those in Lugano in summer 2022 and London last year. The aim of the conference is to address the ongoing destruction of civilian infrastructure by the Russian army and the urgent need for repairs.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the importance of military aid and air defense for Ukraine. Zelensky reiterated the need for additional Patriot air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities and metropolitan areas. Energy supply was also highlighted as an urgent area requiring support. The destruction of production capacity by Russian attacks has severely impacted Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

Germany has played a significant role in supporting Ukraine, with promises of military aid and ongoing deliveries of air defense systems. The economic potential of Ukraine, particularly in areas like renewable energies and IT, has attracted investments from countries like Germany. The prospect of EU accession for Ukraine has also been discussed, with the EU Commission considering starting accession negotiations at the end of June.

Despite the challenges of ongoing destruction and displacement of people, the conference focused on the need for stability and support. The event aimed to network international actors and showcase opportunities for collaboration, rather than discussing new aid pledges. Some Swiss companies, like Global Clearance Solutions and Rehau, were among the exhibitors highlighting their contributions to reconstruction efforts in Ukraine.

The Berlin conference marks the beginning of a series of events focused on Ukraine, including the G7 summit in Italy and the Ukraine peace conference on the Bürgenstock. While there are no negotiations on ending the war at the current stage, there are efforts to explore ways to initiate a process that could eventually lead to peace talks involving Russia. The resignation of Mustafa Najjem, the head of the State Agency for Reconstruction and Infrastructure Development, has highlighted challenges within Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts and the need for effective leadership in addressing reconstruction projects.