Germany's President Steinmeier Arrives in Ukraine

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier arrived on an unexpected visit to Ukraine on Tuesday morning.

This is Steinmeier’s first trip to Ukraine since February 24, when Russia launched its special military operation in Ukraine. 

"My message to the Ukrainians is that we are not only standing by your side. We will continue to support Ukraine, economically, politically, and also militarily," the president said after his arrival.

His message to Germans at home, Steinmeier said, was: "Let's not forget what this war means for the people here in Ukraine. How much suffering, how much destruction there is. The people in Ukraine need us."

"It was important to me, especially now in this phase of air attacks with drones, cruise missiles, and rockets, to send a message of solidarity to the Ukrainians," he added.

The president also said he was "very happy" to be in the country, and praised the "courage, steadfastness, and fortitude of Ukrainians".

Steinmeier was expected to arrive in Ukraine last Thursday. However, the flight was canceled in a short time due to the tense security situation, as Kyiv was bombed by Russian missiles and aircraft.

An official from his office mentioned that German security authorities and the Foreign Ministry had advised Steinmeier not to go, but that the visit would be rescheduled soon.

However, other leaders continued to visit Kyiv. For example, Swiss President Ignazio Cassis visited the Ukrainian capital on the same day that Steinmeier was scheduled to be there.