German Chancellor Merz Visits Kyiv to Pledge Military Support
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on a surprise solidarity visit, accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and ten business leaders, to discuss further military support for Ukraine's defense against Russia. Merz plans to pledge thousands of interceptor drones to counter Russian jet-powered drones and advance joint production of long-range weapons. He announced one billion euros from approved budget funds, plus 350 million euros for repairing destroyed power plants. Russia's Foreign Ministry warned foreigners to leave Kyiv hours before his arrival, citing risks near military and government sites. This is Merz's second visit to Kyiv since taking office, following a recent disappointing meeting between German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul and Russia's Sergey Lawrow.