Germany's envoy in Kyiv: everyday life has become an act of resistance

Germany's ambassador to Ukraine Heiko Thoms describes how Kyiv residents have transformed the continuation of ordinary life into a deliberate form of resistance against Russian aggression. Thoms speaks of a harsh winter in which systematic attacks on energy infrastructure were meant to break the people's will, but instead strengthened it. At the same time, he warns against excessive expectations regarding Ukraine's rapid EU membership.

Germany's ambassador to Ukraine Heiko Thoms recently walked through the streets of Kyiv and spoke about how continuing everyday life has become a symbol of survival in war and resistance against Russia for Ukrainians.

A harsh winter strengthened the spirit of resistance

Thoms recalls the recent winter as one of the most difficult in decades. Temperatures remained in double-digit minus figures for weeks, while Russian forces systematically pounded Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The hum of generators covered the city around the clock. All of this was meant to break civilians' mental resilience.

The result was the opposite. According to the ambassador, these war crimes strengthened Ukrainians' determination to resist. Thoms acknowledges, however, that his Ukrainian colleagues suffer enormous mental and physical strain that continues daily.

Ukraine has become a centre of innovation

Thoms highlights Ukraine's rapid military and technological advancement. The country is no longer merely a recipient of security assistance but has become a genuine centre of innovation. Drone units, precision strikes on Russian supply lines, and the shifting of what is known as the front line show that Kyiv is seizing the initiative for itself.

At the same time, Thoms emphasises that Germany should learn from Ukraine's experience, particularly in the areas of resilience and innovation, before Europe itself faces a similar crisis.

EU membership requires genuine reforms

Despite military progress and initial concrete peace negotiations, Thoms applies the brakes to overly optimistic expectations about Ukraine's EU membership. He considers the 2027 target date unrealistic.

According to the ambassador, Ukraine must carry out thorough reforms before joining the EU, particularly in strengthening the principles of the rule of law and combating corruption. These are not mere formalities but genuine preconditions for membership.