Germany and France Sign Bilateral Security Agreement with Ukraine's Zelensky

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is embarking on a European tour to secure military support from Germany and France as aid from the United States stalls. On February 16, 2023, he signed a bilateral security agreement with Germany worth €1.13 billion ($1.22 billion), focusing on air defense and artillery. Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht stated that for the first time in its history, Germany is acting as a guarantor state. Zelensky also plans to sign a similar deal with France later the same day. The agreements come at a critical time as Ukraine faces mounting pressure on the eastern frontlines due to ammunition shortages and fresh Russian attacks.