Merz plans to meet with Zelensky to discuss supporting the country in its fight against Russian aggression. Specifically, the talks will likely focus on air defense, assistance in restoring damaged power plants and infrastructure, and long-range weapons for strikes on Russian military facilities and the defense industry.
"I came to Kiev today because in the coming weeks Ukraine will need all our support," Merz stated upon his arrival. "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later be turned against us."
According to the Chancellor, the fifth winter of war is about to begin for the Ukrainians, but "terror will not make the people give up." German and Ukrainian companies are jointly developing technologies that will benefit both countries.
"This makes us safer and stronger," Merz noted.
Possible peace negotiations with Russia are also in focus—though they primarily depend on the readiness of Russian President Vladimir Putin to negotiate, which has not been observed so far.