German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv unannounced on the morning of 4 October, together with the economy minister and executives from defence and energy companies.
On the morning of Sunday, 4 October, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv without prior announcement. It is his first visit to the Ukrainian capital since May 2025. Volunteers Support Ukraine summarises the key points.
Merz arrived at Kyiv's central railway station, where he was greeted by Germany's ambassador to Ukraine, Boris Ruge. He is accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and ten executives from defence and energy companies. "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later turn against us," Merz told reporters.
According to Ukrinform and Kyiv Post, the chancellor brought a proposal to deliver quickly 1,000 newly developed interceptor systems designed to counter jet-powered Shaheds. The talks also cover new financial and military commitments and support for accelerated production of long-range weapons for Ukraine. Merz is due to hold talks with President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The visit coincided with another night attack: overnight into 4 October Russia launched 135 strike drones and air defence shot down or suppressed 125 targets. Air defence remains one of Ukraine's most urgent needs.
Volunteers Support Ukraine continues to help people affected by the war as far as its resources allow, and values the international support that makes such help possible.
