German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made an unannounced trip to Kyiv on Sunday to underscore Berlin’s support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
The capital faces intensifying missile and drone strikes aimed at critical infrastructure, especially the energy network that supplies power and heating as winter looms.
“I came to Kyiv today because Ukraine will need our full backing in the weeks ahead,” Merz said in a statement released after his arrival.
“If Russia is not halted, its war machine will eventually threaten us as well.”
Merz, whose nation ranks among Kyiv’s biggest backers, was accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche, according to government sources.
Upon arrival, he was greeted by Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga, who noted that discussions with President Volodymyr Zelensky would cover the full scope of bilateral, European and international affairs.
“Ukraine and Germany have forged a strong strategic partnership, and we are intent on deepening it further,” Merz posted on X.
In his remarks, Merz assured Zelensky that Kyiv can continue to rely on German assistance.
The statement also highlighted growing cooperation between German and Ukrainian businesses.
Earlier in the week, the German chancellor urged unity across NATO, Europe and within Germany itself, warning that the far‑right, Moscow‑sympathetic AfD is gaining traction.
On Saturday, Moscow told foreign nationals and diplomats to evacuate Kyiv, warning of imminent “massive” airstrikes.
The Russian Foreign Ministry stated that any fallout from ignoring the warning would be the sole responsibility of those who do so.
Moscow issued a comparable alert in May, yet leaders of nations supporting Ukraine have disregarded the threats and kept visiting the capital.
Kyiv has endured relentless aerial bombardment and repeatedly appealed for additional air‑defense munitions to counter Russian drones and missiles.
In recent days, Russian forces have struck several bridges over the Dnipro River that bisects the city, creating traffic snarls and disrupting transit.
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Friday that, despite being far from the front lines, the city finds itself in a “very dramatic” predicament and must shift to a war footing.
(FRANCE 24 with AFP)
