Merz visits Kyiv to finalize drone deal and release aid
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday with German defence industry CEOs to show support for Ukraine amid escalating Russian attacks, announcing €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy repairs. The visit aims to finalize a deal for joint drone production, including anti-jet drones tested by German firm Quantum, and weapons with over 1,000 km range. Merz will also press Ukraine on EU-requested reforms, including anti-corruption efforts. Russia warned foreign nationals against traveling to Ukraine, vowing continued retaliatory strikes. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy said Kyiv would intensify attacks on Russian oil refineries in response to Moscow's strikes on civilian infrastructure.