Germany's Merz arrives in Kyiv to finalize drone deal, release aid
- German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday, October 4, 2026, for an unannounced visit, announcing €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy infrastructure repairs amid escalating Russian attacks.
- Merz's visit follows repeated warnings from Berlin that air defense shortfalls represent Ukraine's primary vulnerability, while Russia's Foreign Ministry warned Saturday of 'mass retaliatory strikes' against Kyiv and other cities.
- Accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and defense-company CEOs, Merz aims to finalize joint production deals for drones, missiles and software designed to counter Russian aerial attacks that have intensified since summer.
- Merz described the partnership as 'not a one-way street,' emphasizing that cooperation allows money and technology to flow back to Germany, where defenses against drones targeting critical infrastructure can be strengthened.
- Ahead of the October 15-16 European Council summit, Merz reaffirmed Germany's defense commitments despite domestic political friction, arguing that protecting Kyiv's sovereignty remains foundational to Germany's own long-term prosperity and security.
337 Articles
337 Articles
The German Chancellor went to Kiev and promised further military and energy support to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kiev on Monday, accompanied by heads of German defense industry companies. The move is a show of support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy amid Russia's escalating attacks on Ukrainian cities. Merz is set to announce a series of measures, including the release of 1 billion euros in military aid and 350 million euros for energy infrastructure repairs, German officials said. A deal to jointl…
Russia strikes Kyiv bridge as Germany’s Merz visits, pledges aid
Russia struck a bridge in Kyiv on Sunday soon after Germany’s chancellor arrived in Ukraine’s capital on a surprise visit to demonstrate European support in the face of an upsurge in attacks. Air raid sirens blared across Kyiv, urging residents to shelter soon after Friedrich Merz arrived under tight security, with warnings of approaching Russian attack drones. Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko then confirmed that a strike had damaged the road surface…
Friedrich Merz promised further assistance to strengthen Ukrainian air defense.
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