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.
298 Articles
298 Articles
Russian drone slams into bridge in Kyiv as Germany’s chancellor visits
By Svitlana Vlasova and Sophie Tanno, CNN (CNN) — A Russian drone slammed into a bridge in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv on Sunday as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited the city in a display of support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Video footage showed the moment the city’s North Bridge was struck, sparking a
Germany's Merz Arrives in Kyiv to the Sound of Sirens and Explosions
The sound of air raid sirens and explosions rang out in Ukraine's capital Kyiv on Sunday as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived for a visit to show support for President Volodymyr Zelensky amid escalating Russian attacks.
Federal Chancellor Merz has travelled unannounced to Kiev and has pledged further support to Ukraine. During his visit, Russia apparently continued its attacks on Kiev.
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