German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made an unannounced visit to Kyiv on the 4th, pledging to sustain support for Ukraine even as Russia presses its offensive.
Merz arrived in the Ukrainian capital by train, according to AFP and other news agencies. "Ukraine needs our full support in the coming weeks," he said in a statement released by the German government, explaining the purpose of the trip.
The chancellor also stressed that Russia's war cannot be seen as a problem confined to Ukraine. "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will soon be directed at us," he said. "Germany's security also depends on the outcome of this war."
German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and 10 executives from defense and energy companies accompanied him on the trip. Merz said cooperation between companies in the two countries would strengthen not only Ukraine's defenses but also the security of Germany and Europe.
Germany is expected to announce additional assistance for Ukraine during the visit. Reuters reported that Berlin would unveil about 1 billion euros ($1.1 billion) in military aid and 350 million euros ($385 million) to help repair energy facilities, and would also agree on cooperation for joint drone production.
Merz is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the same day to discuss strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities and European security. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha greeted Merz and his delegation in Kyiv.
The visit comes as the threat of Russian air attacks on Kyiv has intensified. Russia has recently stepped up its assault on the capital, striking bridges over the Dnipro River, which runs through Kyiv, and energy infrastructure. A day before Merz's arrival, warnings that Russia was preparing a large-scale air attack on Kyiv prompted advisories for foreign nationals and diplomats to evacuate.
On social media, Merz repeated his commitment to assistance, saying the coming weeks would be "decisive" for Ukraine. He added that support for Ukraine was not simply aid but reflected a "vital interest" directly tied to Germany's own security.
