German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has arrived in the Ukrainian capital on an unannounced visit, marking the politician’s first trip to the country since 2025. At the Kyiv railway station, the head of the German government was met by Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha. The main purpose of the visit was to discuss further strategic partnership, strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities, and approve a new large-scale support package aimed at countering Russian aggression during a critical period.
New Support Package and Energy Assistance
During negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the German Chancellor officially announced a new package of military and financial aid. The total volume of support includes 1 billion euros for defense needs and another 350 million euros to be directed toward the emergency restoration and protection of the country's energy sector. Friedrich Merz stressed that Germany intends to stand firmly by Kyiv's side, noting the ongoing barbaric strikes by the Russian army on residential buildings and heat generation facilities.
Defense Cooperation and Drone Production
A critical component of the visit was the discussion of joint defense manufacturing. The delegation included top executives from leading German defense and energy concerns, including Siemens Energy, Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, and Quantum Systems. The parties are preparing to sign an agreement on the production of various types of drones, missiles, and associated software. Particular emphasis is placed on developing interceptor drones to counter Russian strike UAVs, as well as creating advanced weapon systems with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometers.
Economic Benefits and European Integration Reforms
Deepening military-industrial cooperation will also bring strategic dividends to Germany itself, helping to return advanced technologies to the national economy and strengthen the protection of critical infrastructure from aerial threats. In addition to security, meetings with Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and government officials addressed the implementation of key reforms by the Ukrainian side. Berlin expects steady progress from Kyiv in European integration and anti-corruption efforts, which is a fundamental condition for closer rapprochement with the European Union.
