Germany's Merz arrives in Kyiv to finalize drone deal, release aid
Merz said Germany will provide €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy repairs as Kyiv seeks more air defenses.
- 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.
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Friedrich Merz is expected to hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on bilateral ties and European, international issues
The visit of the German Chancellor on Sunday, October 4, comes only one day after Russia called on diplomats and foreigners to leave the Ukrainian capital, warning that its forces would continue to carry out "massive reprisals".
Merz visits Kyiv as Russia steps up missile and drone attacks
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv as Russia intensified strikes on Ukrainian cities. The visit underscored Berlin's continued backing for Ukraine amid a stalled war and pressure on civilian infrastructure.
Friedrich Merz explained that I moved to Kiev today because Ukraine needs all our support in the coming weeks.
The objective of Merz's visit is to demonstrate his support from Berlin to Kiev in the war against Russia. They will warn that if the US chooses the "military confrontation", the answer "will be stronger than before".
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