German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday morning with Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of German economic leaders to pledge new support for Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts during its ongoing conflict with Russia. According to sources, Merz is expected to announce a package including more than €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for repairing Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Amid growing Russian attacks and the approach of winter, Merz emphasized the urgency of enhanced assistance to Ukraine, highlighting Germany’s commitment and the mutual benefits of expanded defense cooperation. This visit follows warnings from the Russian Foreign Ministry urging diplomats and visitors to steer clear of Kyiv’s government and military sites.
New Military Aid and Technology Cooperation
Merz plans to introduce initiatives focusing on the co-production of interceptor drones and long-range missiles in both Ukraine and Germany. German government sources cited by Reuters and dpa news agencies indicate that arms production will emphasize thousands of interceptor drones designed to counter jet-powered Russian drones that have targeted civilian infrastructure.
Additionally, missile production aimed at capabilities exceeding 1,000 kilometers in range is expected to increase. This enhancement would enable Ukraine to strike targets well beyond frontlines, potentially inside Russian territory.
Energy Sector Support and Strategic Importance
The announced €350 million funding is intended to repair Ukraine’s damaged energy networks, which have been frequent targets of Russian bombardment. Merz highlighted the approach of a fifth winter of war, stressing the necessity of sustained support as Russian strikes on cities and power stations continue.
He also pointed out that Germany stands to gain from the bilateral cooperation through improved defense readiness against hybrid threats and economic benefits related to job creation and technology development.
Russian Warnings and German Resolve
The visit came shortly after Russia’s Foreign Ministry issued a warning against diplomatic visits to Kyiv, stating that any negative consequences would be the responsibility of those ignoring the alert. The ministry described Russian strikes as responses to alleged “terrorist acts” by Ukrainian forces against civilian targets within Russia.
Despite these warnings, the German delegation proceeded with the visit. Merz assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Germany’s continued aid, underscoring the critical importance of supporting Ukraine in the weeks ahead.
