German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv by train to announce expanded German support for Ukraine, with officials saying the package will include thousands of interceptor drones and accelerated production of long‑range weapons. He traveled with Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of 10 defence and energy business leaders. The commitments are intended to strengthen Ukraine's defense and deter further Russian aggression; the conflict has continued since February 2022.
Merz Travels to Kyiv by Train to Pledge Expanded Military Aid — Drones and Long‑Range Weapons Promised
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives at the central railway station in Kiev early in the morning. (is associated with: «Germany's Merz arrives in Kiev to pledge more military support») Kay Nietfeld/dpa
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday by train, signalling Berlin's intent to deepen support for Ukraine as it defends against Russia's full-scale invasion. Government sources say the visit will include announcements of fresh financial aid and major military commitments, notably thousands of interceptor drones and measures to speed up production of long‑range weapons.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives at the central railway station in Kiev early in the morning. (is associated with: «Germany's Merz arrives in Kiev to pledge more military support») Kay Nietfeld/dpa
Delegation and Purpose
Merz was accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of 10 business leaders from Germany's defence and energy industries. The delegation underscores Germany's effort to coordinate public and private-sector resources to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives at the central railway station in Kiev early in the morning. (is associated with: «Germany's Merz arrives in Kiev to pledge more military support») Kay Nietfeld/dpa
"If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later turn against us," Merz said as he stepped off the train in the Ukrainian capital.
What to Expect
According to government sources, the pledges are expected to include both direct financial commitments and large-scale deliveries of interceptor drones. Officials also plan to announce steps to accelerate production and delivery timelines for long‑range weapons—measures intended to strengthen Ukraine's ability to repel attacks and deter further aggression.
Context
Ukraine has been resisting a full-scale Russian invasion since February 2022. Germany's latest support effort comes amid broader Western attempts to ensure Kyiv can sustain its defense and to prevent the conflict from threatening wider European security.
Arrival
Merz arrived at Kyiv's central railway station early Sunday morning, choosing rail travel that echoes earlier visits by Western leaders and underlines the symbolic solidarity with Ukraine.
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