German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrives in Kyiv on an unannounced visit and signals renewed German support for Ukraine. Multiple outlets report that he is accompanied by Economy Minister Katharina Reiche and senior representatives from German defense and energy firms, framing the trip as a show of backing for President Volodymyr Zelensky amid intensified Russian strikes.
According to the reports, Merz is expected to announce a package combining military assistance with energy-related measures. Several outlets cite figures including €1 billion for military aid and about €350 million earmarked for energy repairs, while another report references a total package of €1.35 billion. Outlets also agree that the drone element is central: Merz backs plans for joint production of interceptor drones intended to counter Russian Shahed-type, jet-powered drones.
Across coverage, outlets differ slightly in emphasis and specifics. Some focus on the proposed production and the number of interceptors mentioned (1,000 specialized interceptors), while others highlight Merz’s warning that failure to stop Russia could threaten NATO and the wider Western alliance. France 24 and others also stress the context of recent drone attacks targeting Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly in Kyiv, as the visit unfolds.
