“For the first time in a long while, I am returning from Berlin in good spirits. It was very important for me to be in the German capital these days, on the eve of the new government’s formation. To meet and engage in thorough, unhurried conversations about Germany’s role in the ‘coalition of the determined,’ its potential contribution, our priorities, and principles”, shared Alyona Getmanchuk, Director of the New Europe Center (NEC), reflecting on her advocacy visit to Germany.

This week, Alyona Getmanchuk held two days of meetings and discussions in Berlin with those who, in less than a week, will begin shaping—or supporting the shaping of—decisions on critically important foreign policy and security issues for Ukraine. This included a conversation with Johann Wadephul, nominated to serve as Germany’s next Minister for Foreign Affairs, as well as key discussions during the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) conference, where the NEC Director was invited as a guest. “I am trying to convey the message that more determination, leadership, and self-confidence are needed”, emphasized Alyona Getmanchuk.

According to the NEC Director, at every turn, the message was clear: “We stand firmly with Ukraine.” “The conversations offer a degree of hope. Yet, as we well know—words and intentions must be backed by concrete action, decisive and swift,” concluded Alyona Getmanchuk.

In the photo: with the incoming Head the Federal Foreign Office Johann Wadephul and newly elected MP Johannes Folkman, grandson of Helmut Kohl.

The advocacy visit to Germany was carried out by the New Europe Center with the support of the “Renaissance” International Foundation.