German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on an unannounced visit and declared full support for Ukraine ahead of winter. Representatives of German defence and energy companies also travelled with him to the Ukrainian capital.
This was reported by DW and German government sources.
Merz was met at the railway station by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha.
“Today I came to Kyiv because Ukraine needs our support in the coming weeks. If we do not stop Russia, its war machine will sooner or later turn against us,” the chancellor said upon arrival.
According to German government sources, Merz is expected to announce a support package during the visit that includes €1 billion in military aid and another €350 million for the restoration of energy infrastructure.
The visit is also expected to finalise agreements on the joint production of several types of drones.
Merz said Russian forces continue to attack Ukrainian cities, residential buildings and thermal power plants.
“Today I will tell President Zelensky that he can continue to count on our support,” the chancellor stressed.
Germany’s Economy Minister Katherina Reiche also arrived in Kyiv with Merz, along with a business delegation.
The delegation includes executives from Siemens Energy, Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, Quantum Systems and other companies.
The visit comes amid intensified Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure ahead of the winter period.
