German Chancellor Friedrich Merz Arrives in Kyiv Pledging New Aid
The visit expands defense partnerships to help Ukraine defend critical infrastructure against aerial attacks ahead of winter.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv by train on Sunday for an unannounced visit to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Merz pledged expanded military support and assistance to repair Ukrainian infrastructure damaged by Russian aerial strikes.
German government officials said Berlin plans to release 1 billion euros in military aid and 350 million euros to restore damaged power installations. German Economic Affairs Minister Katherina Reiche and executives from 10 defense and energy companies accompanied the chancellor. The corporate delegation includes leaders from Quantum Systems, Diehl Defence, Hensoldt and Siemens Energy.
The trip focuses on finalizing agreements to jointly manufacture defense systems, including interceptor drones designed to shoot down Russian jet-powered attack drones. In April, German drone maker Quantum and Ukrainian company WIY Drones formed a joint venture to build the Strila interceptor drone. The broader defense arrangement also covers the joint development of weapons capable of striking targets at ranges exceeding 1,000 kilometers.
Upon arrival, Merz stated that Ukraine requires full German support as Russian forces continue to bomb Ukrainian towns, residential buildings and heating plants. Merz added that if Russian aggression is not stopped in Ukraine, the Russian war effort will eventually threaten other European nations. German officials said the expanded industrial cooperation will enable weapons production to aid Ukraine while reinforcing defenses against drone strikes across Europe.
The trip took place under elevated security precautions following sustained Russian attacks on Ukrainian transportation networks and cities. Hours before the train arrived in Kyiv, the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a warning advising foreign visitors and diplomats against remaining near government buildings in the Ukrainian capital.
During his talks on Sunday, Merz is scheduled to meet Zelenskyy to review the weapons production agreements and discuss administrative reforms requested by European Union partners.
