German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Sunday, delivering a firm message that Germany will not be intimidated into abandoning its support for Ukraine. During his visit, the Chancellor announced a new €1 billion ($1.1 billion) military aid package. This funding is specifically earmarked for the joint production of drones designed to intercept Russian jet-powered aircraft, with Merz noting that recent significant technical breakthroughs are expected to accelerate manufacturing timelines.
In addition to the military support, Merz announced €350 million aimed at repairing Ukraine's energy sector, which has faced consistent targeting by Moscow as the winter season approaches. The Chancellor emphasized that this financial assistance serves a dual purpose, stating, “We do it deeply in our own interest, for it is a matter of Europe’s security.” He further argued that Russia is actively engaging in cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns intended to undermine European democratic institutions. Moscow has consistently denied these allegations, characterizing them as unfounded and the result of anti-Russian hysteria.
The visit occurred under tense conditions, as air raid sirens and multiple explosions echoed across the capital. Russia targeted the city's key Northern Bridge over the Dnipro River, marking the fourth consecutive day of strikes against bridges used by thousands of daily commuters. Video footage captured the moment a Russian drone struck the bridge’s roadway, resulting in a fiery explosion. Later that day, a separate Russian airstrike hit Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city. Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported that the attack resulted in one death and left six other individuals injured.
