Germany's Merz arrives in Kyiv to finalize drone deal, release aid

Kyiv faced Russian aerial strikes as Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited the Ukrainian capital. Moments after Merz's arrival, sirens blared, urging residents to seek shelter. The Northern Bridge, a crucial link between Kyiv's eastern and western sides, sustained damage from a missile strike, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko.

The strike echoed other recent attacks on residential areas, petrol stations, schools, and communications infrastructure. Merz emphasized the need for comprehensive support for Ukraine, stating that Russia's aggression could eventually turn against them. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly sought more military assistance from Western allies, particularly advanced interceptors to counter Russia's fast-moving drones.

Merz and Zelenskyy were expected to agree on a new package of military support worth over $1 billion, including combat drones, satellite technology, and joint production of anti-jet drones. The support aims to address Ukraine's pressing air defense needs, with benefits expected to be swift and tangible. Meanwhile, Russia warned foreigners and diplomats to evacuate Kyiv, claiming a new wave of airstrikes would target the city.

Despite the Russian threat, leaders from NATO allies and Ukraine's supporters have defied the warnings, stressing the importance of continued Western backing for Ukraine. Germany pledged to contribute 350 million euros for generator, transformer, and grid repair support as winter approaches, while Kyiv residents began preparing for potential power and heating outages similar to those endured last year.