German chancellor arrives in Kyiv with further Ukraine aid expected

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday with Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of German economic figures, promising continued support for Ukraine during Russia’s invasion. “If Russia is not stopped, it will turn its war machine against us sooner or later,” Merz said after arriving by train. He is expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the visit.

German media reports say Merz is expected to announce a further billion euros in military assistance and €350 million for repairs to Ukraine’s energy sector. Plans for joint production of interceptor drones and long-range missiles in Ukraine and Germany are also expected to be unveiled. Government sources cited by Reuters and dpa said cooperation could include thousands of drones designed to intercept fast, jet-powered Russian drones.

Missile production with a range exceeding 1,000 kilometres is also expected to be expanded. The visit follows a warning from Russia’s Foreign Ministry urging diplomats and other visitors to avoid Kyiv, particularly military and government buildings. The ministry said Russia’s strikes were responses to alleged Ukrainian attacks on civilian infrastructure.

Merz said Ukraine would need Germany’s support as winter approached and Russian attacks intensified. He also indicated that discussions with Zelenskyy would include political reforms and corruption. Germany remains Ukraine’s most important military and financial backer, although support for spending on the war faces criticism from political parties inside Germany.