Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sunday morning, accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of German economic leaders. Merz is expected to announce new measures to support Ukraine, including military aid and plans for the joint production of interceptor drones. According to German media reports, this support may include an additional billion euros in military aid and €350 million ($395 million) for energy sector repairs.
Plans for the co-production of interceptor drones and long-range missiles in both Ukraine and Germany are also anticipated. German government sources, cited by Reuters and dpa, indicate that arms production will focus on developing thousands of drones designed to intercept jet-powered drones used by the Russian military against civilian infrastructure in Ukraine. Additionally, the production of missiles with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers (620 miles) is expected to increase, enhancing Ukraine's capability to target military and logistical sites beyond the frontline, including within Russia.
Merz is expected to highlight the benefits of expanded cooperation for Germany, including improvements in defense against Russian activities and potential job creation. He is also scheduled to discuss political reforms and anti-corruption efforts with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
This visit follows a warning from the Russian Foreign Ministry to foreign diplomats to avoid Kyiv, particularly military and government buildings. The statement claimed that Russian strikes were responses to alleged terrorist acts by Ukrainian forces against Russian civilian infrastructure.
In recent days, Russia has targeted several bridges and energy infrastructure in Ukraine, with Kyiv's mayor, Vitali Klitschko, describing the situation as "very dramatic." Despite these threats, Merz stated that "Ukraine will need all our support in the coming weeks" as winter approaches. He emphasized that "a fifth winter of war is about to begin" and assured Zelenskyy of Germany's continued support.
Merz's visit marks the fourth trip to Ukraine by a German chancellor since the full-scale Russian invasion began in February 2022. His predecessor, Olaf Scholz, made two visits during his tenure. Merz first traveled to Kyiv in May 2025, shortly after taking office, accompanied by leaders from France, Poland, and the UK.
In recent remarks, Merz reaffirmed Germany's commitment to Ukraine despite domestic criticism and resistance. He stated, "If we in Germany waver, Europe wavers," highlighting the importance of unity in supporting Ukraine. Germany remains Ukraine's primary military and financial supporter, although recent state elections have seen gains for parties critical of Ukraine expenditures.