Germany's Merz visits Kyiv as Russia steps up attacks on Ukrainian cities

Kyiv, Ukraine — German Chancellor Friedrich Merz visited Kyiv on Sunday to show support as Russia escalates its attacks on Ukrainian cities. The aerial conflict has intensified, with Moscow targeting cities across Ukraine using difficult-to-defend ballistic missiles and jet-powered drones, while Kyiv targets Russia’s oil industry and businesses.

Merz, who was in Kyiv for his second visit as chancellor, said he aimed to demonstrate Germany’s support for Ukraine. "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later turn against us," he stated, adding that he assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of continued German assistance.

Merz emphasized that the partnership between Germany and Ukraine is not one-sided, citing joint German and Ukrainian companies developing technologies that benefit both nations. "This makes us safer and stronger," he remarked. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha confirmed that the agenda for the visit would focus on strengthening Ukraine's defense and resilience, as well as their shared European security. Russian Foreign Minister (incomplete due to source truncation).