Germany’s Merz in Kyiv: €1 billion military aid, €350 million energy repair, drone deal

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv early Sunday, 4 October, accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and defence-industry executives, in a show of support as Russia intensifies attacks on Ukrainian cities, according to CNBC citing dpa and Associated Press reporting.

Aid package and industry delegation

German government officials said Merz would announce the release of €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy-sector repairs. The delegation included executives from Siemens Energy, Hensoldt, Diehl Defence, Quantum Systems and other firms. Merz said he travelled because “Ukraine needs all our support in the coming weeks” and warned that if Russia is not stopped, “sooner or later its war machine will turn against us,” CNBC reported. He also said he would press Kyiv on reforms requested by EU partners, including anti-corruption steps.

Drones and long-range weapons

The visit was expected to finalize a deal for joint production of drones, missiles and related software, following Zelenskyy’s remark after a phone call with Merz that such an agreement was near. A focus is rapid production of anti-jet interceptor drones; Quantum and Ukrainian manufacturer WIY Drones announced in April a joint venture, Quantum WIY Industries, for the Strila interceptor. Officials also cited joint development of weapons with ranges above 1,000 km (about 600 miles). AP noted a Russian drone again hit Kyiv’s Northern Bridge on Sunday morning as Merz arrived, with no immediate casualty word.