German arms exports to Ukraine have decreased significantly, with a nearly eightfold decline in shipments since last year, according to data from the Economy Ministry. The ministry reported that from January 1 to December 8, 2025, Berlin approved the export of weapons and military equipment worth €1.14 billion to Kiev, down from €8.15 billion in the previous year.
Germany has been the second-largest supplier of weapons to Ukraine since the conflict escalated in February 2022, surpassed only by the United States. The country’s overall arms and military equipment exports have also declined, with €8.4 billion in exports since the start of the year, compared to €13.33 billion and €12.15 billion in 2024 and 2023, respectively.
The decline in arms exports comes as Germany plans to expand its own military capabilities. In October, reports emerged of a planned €377 billion expansion of the armed forces over the next few years, which would encompass the land, air, naval, space, and cyber forces. This move is part of a broader trend of militarization across the European Union.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has pledged to turn the German military into the “strongest conventional army in Europe” by 2029, citing the alleged Russian threat. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has dismissed this claim as a “lie” and “pure nonsense.” Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has also described Germany’s militarization push as a sign of “re-Nazification” of the country.
The significant decrease in German arms exports to Ukraine may have implications for the ongoing conflict. As one of the main suppliers of weapons to Ukraine, Germany’s reduced exports could impact the country’s ability to defend itself. The German government’s plans to expand its military capabilities may also have broader implications for European security and the balance of power in the region. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the conflict and the wider geopolitical landscape.
