Ukraine's Rustem Umierov discusses defence cooperation in Berlin amid European tour

What happened

Ukrainska Pravda English reports that Rustem Umierov, Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council (NSDC), visited Berlin on 26 May and met with Günter Sautter, the German chancellor's adviser on Ukraine. According to Umierov's spokesperson Diana Davitian, they discussed security issues, peace negotiations, defence cooperation, and specifically the Drone Deal between Ukraine and Germany.

The central claim remains unconfirmed in the supplied material and should be treated as hearsay until corroborated by another reliable source or a named official. Davitarian’s comments to Interfax-Ukraine, as reported by European Pravda, confirm that while defence cooperation was a focus, the issue of Ukraine's 'limited EU membership' was not raised during the Berlin meeting. This reflects a narrower agenda centred on immediate security and defence ties rather than broader political or integration topics.

Umierov's visit to Berlin is part of a wider European tour. Earlier, he met Björn Seibert, Head of the Cabinet of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in Brussels to discuss EU-Ukraine defence cooperation. Prior to that, he visited Ankara and held talks with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, indicating a strategic diplomatic effort across Europe to secure defence support.

Known from the source

• Rustem Umierov is Secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defence Council.
• Umierov visited Berlin on 26 May 2026.
• In Berlin, he met Günter Sautter, the German chancellor's adviser on Ukraine.
• They discussed security issues, peace negotiations, defence cooperation including a Drone Deal with Germany.
• The issue of Ukraine's limited EU membership was not discussed in Berlin.

What remains unclear

The mention of the Drone Deal suggests ongoing or planned deliveries or cooperation on Ukrainian drone capabilities, a key element in Kyiv’s defence strategy. Strengthening military cooperation with Germany and the European Commission could impact the dynamics of Western support for Ukraine in the conflict with Russia.

What remains unclear: Confirm whether the central claim is corroborated; until then treat it as unconfirmed/hearsay. Details and status of the 'Drone Deal' mentioned between Ukraine and Germany. Any additional undisclosed topics or agreements from Umierov’s Berlin and Brussels meetings. Specific outcomes or commitments from discussions with German and EU officials.

Evidence note

This story contains report-led claims. The article keeps those claims attributed and treats them as unconfirmed/hearsay unless independently corroborated.

Original source: Ukrainska Pravda English. Open the source.