Berlin imposes the highest security measures as Zelenskyy arrives for talks on US peace plan - Bild
Photo: Berlin placed under a state of emergency (Getty Images)
On Sunday, December 14, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin to hold talks on the US peace plan, prompting extensive security measures across the capital, reports Bild.
Zelenskyy has already landed in Germany, and US negotiators are also in Berlin, having arrived earlier in the morning. The capital is under a state of heightened alert due to the visit.
According to Bild, Zelenskyy is under the highest security level, which indicates the authorities expect a possible attack or assassination attempt. Berlin has increased security measures, with police raising protection to the maximum.
Residents of Berlin are advised to avoid the government district. The city's traffic information center, VIZ, warned that streets in the area would be closed for the entire day. Road closures will affect access routes, which will be blocked by barricades and police officers, and drivers are encouraged to use alternate routes.
Bild also highlighted additional security measures implemented during Zelenskyy's previous visits, including on August 13, 2025. These measures included:
- Snipers on rooftops, including the Chancellery building and helicopters;
- Sealing of manholes;
- Deployment of dogs trained to detect explosives;
- Checkpoints, drone defense, and airspace surveillance;
- Police boats and officers on jet skis patrolled the Spree River, with personnel from various federal police forces;
- Complete road closures throughout the government and parliamentary districts;
- Delays affected the metro, commuter trains, and BER airport, with trains operating at reduced speed and stopping unexpectedly.
Benjamin Jendro, spokesperson for the Berlin Police Union, said that authorities are already accustomed to organizing state visits under the highest-risk conditions with little time for preparation. He added that the Berlin police would ensure smooth negotiations and the safe continuation of the Ukrainian president's visit, as well as the security of all other guests.
US peace plan and drone incident in Ireland
On December 14, talks are scheduled in Berlin between President Zelenskyy, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, along with meetings with European leaders.
The parties will continue discussions on the US peace plan, as the White House reportedly aims to reach a peace agreement by the end of the year, according to WSJ.
Earlier in December, Zelenskyy visited Dublin, Ireland. The media later reported that his plane was followed by four unidentified drones.
Presidential Communications Adviser Dmytro Lytvyn said the incident did not affect the visit and would not require any changes. Irish authorities have opened an investigation into the incident.
