Merz Visits Kyiv, Pledges Continued German Support for Ukraine

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for his second visit since taking office, pledging continued support for Ukraine as it faces its fifth wartime winter. He met with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to reaffirm Germany's commitment. The visit is part of a broader diplomatic effort by Berlin to demonstrate steadfast backing for Ukraine while signaling openness to negotiations, though Russia remains unwilling. Merz was accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and ten business leaders from the defense and energy sectors. The trip comes as Kyiv faces intensified Russian aerial attacks, including new jet-powered drones that are difficult to intercept. Germany is assisting with drone cooperation and global procurement of Patriot air defense missiles, while Ukraine's economy struggles under port blockades and infrastructure damage.