German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv by train on Sunday morning, accompanied by executives from several German defense companies. This surprise visit comes as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukrainian cities, according to reports.
During his trip, Merz announced a €1.35 billion support package, which includes €1 billion in military assistance and €350 million for energy sector repairs. Additionally, a joint agreement on drone production is expected to be finalized during this visit.
“I came to Kyiv today because Ukraine needs all our support in the coming weeks,” Merz stated, highlighting the ongoing bombardments by Russian forces targeting cities, residential buildings, and heating plants. He warned, “If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later turn against us.”
Merz assured President Zelensky, saying, “You can continue to count on our support.” He was accompanied by the Minister of Economy, Katherina Reiche, and a delegation consisting of directors from Siemens Energy, Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, Quantum Systems, and other firms.
Furthermore, Merz is expected to press the Ukrainian government to make progress on reforms demanded by EU partners, particularly in combating corruption.
Following a phone conversation with Merz, Zelensky mentioned that Ukraine would soon finalize an agreement with Germany concerning the production of drones, missiles, and related software. One of the primary goals is the rapid production of anti-aircraft drones, which Quantum, a German defense technology company, has successfully tested.
Since the summer, Russia has been utilizing dozens of high-speed attack drones daily to strike civilian and military infrastructure. In April, Quantum and Ukrainian manufacturer WIY Drones announced the establishment of Quantum WIY Industries, a joint venture aimed at producing the interception drone “Strila” along with related air defense technologies.
The agreement also includes the joint development and production of weapons with a range exceeding 1,000 km, which Ukraine could use to launch attacks deep into Russian territory. Government officials have stated that increased cooperation will allow funds and technology to return to the Federal Republic, where weapons are produced and where defenses against drones targeting critical infrastructure can be strengthened.
On Thursday, Merz stated that Germany would not be intimidated by the increasing number of hybrid attacks launched by Russia against European states.
Russia’s Threat Prior to Merz’s Visit to Ukraine
The Russian Foreign Ministry declared on Saturday it would systematically target locations in Ukraine, calling these strikes retaliatory for Ukrainian attacks on Russia in recent months. Just hours before Merz’s visit, the ministry issued a direct warning to foreign delegations: “Some individuals are putting their lives in danger.”
