Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) made a surprising visit to Kyiv as an act of solidarity, accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche (CDU) and ten entrepreneurs from the defense and energy sectors.
The purpose of the visit is widely expected to be to discuss further military aid for Ukraine’s defense against Russia. Merz reportedly plans to assure Ukrainian armed forces of the speedy delivery of thousands of interception drones designed to combat Russian jet-powered drones. Furthermore, the meeting aims to boost the joint production of long-range weapons intended to strike Russian supply lines. To support this effort, one billion euros will be allocated from already approved budgetary funds, supplemented by an additional 350 million euros earmarked for the reconstruction of destroyed power plants.
The security situation in Ukraine has significantly deteriorated in recent months, as Russia increasingly targets civilian infrastructure, and drone attacks-including those in the capital Kyiv-have risen. Shortly before Merz’s arrival, the Russian Foreign Ministry had warned foreign visitors and diplomats against staying in Kyiv, advising them to leave the city, and noted that those who ignored this warning would be responsible for any negative consequences.
Upon his arrival, Merz stated that Ukraine requires Germany’s full support in the coming weeks. He acknowledged that Russia is bombarding cities, residential areas, and heating power plants, yet noted the resilience of the Ukrainian people. He pledged to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Ukraine can continue to rely on German assistance. Merz reiterated that Germany is the most important financial and military supporter of Ukraine, despite mounting resistance within Germany regarding the multi-billion euro aid packages.
