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German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche arrived in Kiev on Friday with a business delegation, pledging support to help Ukraine get through the coming winter as it continues to face Russian attacks on its energy system.<\/p>\n
“We will do everything we can to ensure Ukraine gets through this winter,” Reiche told reporters upon her arrival in the Ukrainian capital.<\/p>\n
She said the focus would be on supporting the reconstruction of destroyed energy infrastructure.<\/p>\n
From the very beginning, Russia had deliberately targeted Ukraine’s energy supply in an attempt to wear down its people, she said.<\/p>\n
Reiche signalled increased financial support and stronger involvement of German energy equipment producers.<\/p>\n
Germany will also provide additional funds for the purchase of natural gas, Reiche said. Between 55% and 60% of the country’s gas infrastructure has been damaged by Russian attacks, she added.<\/p>\n
Berlin had already contributed one third of the \u20ac390 million ($452 million) energy support fund for Ukraine, Reiche said.<\/p>\n
As part of the visit, German drone manufacturers are also expected to sign cooperation agreements with Ukraine’s defence industry.<\/p>\n
Ukraine has been defending itself against the invasion launched by Russia for more than three and a half years with Western support.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n