Merz pledges military aid to Ukraine in Kyiv visit

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for a solidarity visit, pledging concrete military aid including interceptor drones and long-range weapons to support Ukraine's defense against Russia. He warned that if Russia is not stopped, its war machine will eventually target Germany. Merz is accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and ten business leaders from the defense and energy sectors. He plans to assure Ukrainian President Volodymr Selensky of the imminent delivery of thousands of interceptor drones and to boost production of long-range weapons. One billion euros from approved budget funds will be released for these efforts, plus 350 million euros for repairing destroyed power plants. The visit is considered the most dangerous trip by a German chancellor since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Hours before his arrival, Russia's foreign ministry warned foreign visitors and diplomats to leave Kyiv, citing systematic strikes on military targets. This marks Merz's fourth visit to Ukraine, following his first trip in May 2025 alongside French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders.