Merz from the Heart of Kyiv: We Will Continue to Support You

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv today, Sunday, accompanied by executives from German defense companies, in a gesture of support for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities escalate. Merz stated, "I traveled to Kyiv today because Ukraine needs all our support in the coming weeks," pointing out that Russian forces are shelling towns, residential buildings, and heating stations. He added, "I will tell President Zelensky today: you can continue to rely on our assistance.","

He also added, "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will turn against us sooner or later.","

Meanwhile, officials in the German government revealed that Merz will announce a package of measures that includes providing one billion euros in military aid and 350 million euros for reforms in the energy sector.","

They also noted that the visit is expected to finalize an agreement for the joint production of various types of drones, according to "Reuters".

Additionally, it is expected that Merz will urge the Ukrainian government to make progress on the reforms requested by European Union partners, including anti-corruption efforts.

A significant focus is also expected to be placed on the rapid production of drone systems designed to counter jet aircraft, which the German defense technology company Quantum has successfully tested. Meanwhile, Russia has been using dozens of high-speed offensive jet drones daily since the summer to target civilian and military infrastructure.

Zelensky clarified on Wednesday, after a phone call with Merz, that Ukraine will soon finalize the agreement with Germany for the production of drones, missiles, and related software.

It is noteworthy that Quantum and the Ukrainian company W.I.Y. Drones announced in April the establishment of Quantum W.I.Y. Industries, a joint venture to produce the Strela interceptor drone and related air defense technologies.

The agreement also includes the joint development and production of weapons with a range exceeding one thousand kilometers that Ukraine can use to launch attacks deep into Russia.