German Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged €1.3 billion in new aid to Ukraine during a surprise visit to Kyiv on Sunday, as Russian strikes targeted the capital’s infrastructure, including the Northern Bridge over the Dnipro River.
The package includes combat drones, long-range strike weapons, and funding for Ukraine’s energy sector ahead of winter, Merz announced at a joint press conference with President Volodymyr Zelensky. Germany also committed €350 million to repair and protect Ukraine’s battered energy infrastructure, according to reports from the visit .
During the visit, air raid sirens and explosions were reported across Kyiv, with footage showing a drone strike hitting the Northern Bridge. Zelensky stated that Russia was deliberately targeting civilian infrastructure to disrupt transport and push people to leave . The two leaders signed 15 agreements covering security, weapons production, and joint counter-drone efforts, with Merz emphasizing Germany’s commitment to accelerating Ukraine’s EU accession while urging reforms .
Merz’s delegation arrived despite Russian warnings and drone attacks, with the chancellor stating, “We will not be intimidated” . The visit coincided with Russia’s announcement of intensified strikes on Ukrainian military and industrial facilities, following Zelensky’s vow to escalate attacks on Russian oil refineries .
