Germany’s top diplomat arrives in Kiev on unannounced visit

BERLIN, August 22. /TASS/. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul arrived in Kiev on an unannounced visit on Saturday. His agenda includes meetings to discuss assistance to Ukraine and bilateral cooperation in security, Germany’s MFA said. The visit comes ahead of Independence Day of Ukraine celebrated on August 24, the German Foreign Ministry specified. "The visit will mostly center on preparations for the winter. Among other things, these include supplying generators, spare parts and other energy equipment, support to the Ukrainian energy sector, and also measures to protect critical infrastructure," Germany’s diplomatic agency specified. In addition, Wadephul will discuss "deepening cooperation with Ukraine in the sphere of defense and security, mostly in bolstering military capabilities, exchanging experience, and jointly producing long-term security structures." The minister arrived in Kiev by rail. The trip was not announced for security reasons. This is Wadephul’s fourth visit to Ukraine as Germany’s Foreign Minister.