Germany believes talks with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine could become possible in the coming months. European governments are discussing who could represent them in negotiations as U.S.-led efforts remain stalled.
NATO has launched the BALTOPS naval exercise in the Baltic Sea, involving more than 6,000 personnel, 30 vessels and 15 countries. The drills focus on protecting maritime traffic, freedom of navigation and regional security.
Germany and the Netherlands will jointly lead a new NATO command centre in Estonia from mid-2026. The headquarters will oversee exercises and help coordinate defence operations on NATO’s eastern flank.
German firearms manufacturer Heckler & Koch reported a sharp rise of 255% in first-quarter profit and revenue. Strong demand and long-term contracts with NATO armed forces are expected to support future business growth.
Germany is preparing legislation that would require military reservists to take part in training exercises during peacetime. The move is part of plans to expand reserve forces and strengthen military readiness.
German troops, Leopard tanks and other military equipment have arrived in Lithuania for the first major exercise involving Germany’s new brigade. The Freedom Shield drill brings together NATO forces to train near Russia’s borders.
Norway has signed the CAVS Framework Agreement, allowing serial procurement of 6×6 armoured vehicles while Lithuania has decided to buy 936 vehicles at an estimated cost of €1.5 billion.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected a proposal for special EU associate status and renewed calls for full membership, saying Ukraine should have equal rights and a complete role within the bloc.
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz has proposed a new EU “associate member” status for Ukraine that would bring Kiev closer to EU institutions and security arrangements while delaying full membership rights.
Germany plans to buy an initial 40% stake in defence company KNDS, the maker of Leopard 2 tanks and Panzerhaubitze 2000 systems, as Berlin seeks greater involvement in the defence industry and aims to retain key expertise.
The British Army will procure 72 RCH 155 remote controlled artillery systems under a contract worth nearly £1 billion. The programme involving Rheinmetall and KNDS will replace AS90 artillery systems transferred to Ukraine.
Germany and Ukraine will expand defence cooperation with joint work on drones, air defence and battlefield systems. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius described the relationship as a long-term strategic partnership.
Rheinmetall and Deutsche Telekom plan to develop systems to detect and stop hostile drones and cyber threats. The project will combine telecom networks, sensors and laser-based technologies to protect key infrastructure.
Germany is preparing 24 new centres to assess young volunteers for military service as Berlin expands the Bundeswehr under new conscription measures linked to NATO goals and the Ukraine war.
Germany plans to expand defence cooperation with Greece, focusing on joint procurement and maritime defence. Talks also addressed EU policy, regional tensions with Turkey, and security issues in the eastern Mediterranean.
