Friedrich Merz visits Kyiv, pledges support for Ukraine
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for an unannounced visit, stating that Ukraine needs all possible support in the coming weeks. He warned that if Russia is not stopped, its military machine will eventually turn against Europe. Merz is expected to announce 1 billion euros in military aid and 350 million euros for energy, alongside a drone production agreement. The visit comes as Ukraine faces intensified Russian drone attacks and a budget deficit for 2026-2027 war financing. The chancellor was accompanied by Economy Minister Katharina Reiche and business leaders from Siemens Energy, Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, and Quantum Systems. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha greeted him at the railway station.