CDU's Volkmann: Ukraine aid is not charity

At 29, Johannes Volkmann is one of the youngest members of Germany's parliament — and one of the most dedicated supporters of Ukraine. When he was head of the council of the Lahn-Dill district in the state of Hessen, he launched a municipal partnership with the Ukrainian city of Brovary near the capital Kyiv to deliver supplies to those in need.

As a member of the Bundestag's Committee on Foreign Affairs and the United4Ukraine group, an international network of lawmakers, he continues to advocate for Ukraine. During his latest trip to the country, he spoke with DW about why he thinks aid to Ukraine is so important.

DW: Mr. Volkmann, you were last in Ukraine exactly a year ago. What has changed since then?

Johannes Volkmann: The number of airstrikes — and thus the threat to the civilian population — has increased significantly again. And at the same time, there is a sense that the Ukrainian people still want to stand their ground. I have utmost respect for that. Ukraine is demonstrating that freedom and democracy can defend themselves and fight back. That is a very important message of hope.

German support is particularly important for Ukraine's defense capabilities — Germany is the largest bilateral donor to Ukraine in Europe. At the same time, political forces in Germany oppose this support. The voters of these parties share this view and consider aid to Ukraine a waste of money. What would you say to them?

Everyone needs to understand that Ukraine today is not only defending itself, but also protecting Europe. Russian imperialism is not only a threat to Ukraine's borders, but also to those of our allies in the Baltic states and in Poland. That is why every euro we invest in Ukraine today is a good investment in our own security.

On top of that, Ukraine is able to help us more and more in Europe by sharing its experience on the battlefield with European armies — with regard to modern technologies, drones, the training of soldiers and modern tactics.

When it comes to experience, Ukraine has a tremendous lead in these areas. That is why Ukraine is now effectively a provider of security in Europe and no longer merely in need of security.