German Chancellor Friedrich Merz travelled to Kyiv on October 4 for an unannounced visit aimed at reaffirming Germany's support for Ukraine as Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure continue to intensify.
Merz was accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and a delegation of representatives from German defence and energy companies. During meetings with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the two governments discussed further military assistance, energy security and closer cooperation between their defence industries.
Germany announced approximately €1 billion in additional military assistance, including support for long-range weapons, combat drones and satellite technology. A further €350 million was earmarked for Ukraine's energy infrastructure, including generators, substations and repairs to facilities damaged by Russian attacks.
The visit also produced 15 agreements worth more than €8.5 billion, according to the Associated Press, covering security cooperation, weapons production and procurement, and joint efforts to counter Russian drones.
Merz said Germany would continue supporting Ukraine and called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the war and halt attacks on Ukrainian civilians. The chancellor also stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation between German and Ukrainian defence companies.
The visit came as Ukraine prepared for the fifth winter of war, with repeated Russian strikes threatening electricity and heating supplies. Germany has emerged as Ukraine's largest national donor, having provided tens of billions of euros in assistance since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.
