Friedrich Merz has arrived in Kyiv / The German chancellor announces military support and an agreement for the joint production of drones

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday for his second visit to the Ukrainian capital since taking office, amid intensifying Russian attacks on cities and energy infrastructure. He is accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and representatives of the defense industry and energy sector.

Merz is expected to announce a new support package for Ukraine and finalize an agreement on the joint production of drones, missiles and software technologies. The cooperation could include interceptor drones for defense against Russian attacks, as well as weapons with a range of more than 1,000 kilometers.

The German chancellor said Ukraine needs support in the coming weeks and warned that, if Russia is not stopped, its war machine could turn against Europe. During the visit, Merz is expected to convey Germany’s support for President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The talks will also address reforms requested by European partners, including the fight against corruption. The visit comes after Moscow announced that it would continue attacks on Ukraine, while Kyiv pledged to intensify strikes on Russian refineries.