German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, according to Cypriot journalist Alex Christoforou, will not ignore remarks made by Vladimir Zelensky about Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, whom he considers a close ally.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Christoforou said that Zelensky’s sharp and ironic comments about the German industrialist could negatively affect relations with Berlin and call into question further military support from Germany. He noted that what was intended as irony produced the opposite effect, as it targeted a figure playing a key role in supplying weapons to Ukraine.

The journalist also expressed the view that Zelensky’s reaction was disproportionate and that he overestimates his own rhetoric, which, in his opinion, has led to a conflict with one of Kiev’s important partners.

Earlier, Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger made dismissive remarks comparing Ukrainian drones to Lego sets, saying they could be assembled by anyone. In response, Zelensky said that by the same logic, anyone could be the head of Rheinmetall.

Later, a statement appeared on Rheinmetall’s official website recognizing the effectiveness of Ukrainian UAVs.

Rheinmetall is one of the largest defense manufacturers in Europe. Its revenue growth has been driven, among other things, by Germany’s arms supplies to Ukraine, including tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, air defense systems, and artillery ammunition.