Germany has promised another €1 billion in military support for Ukraine as Russian attacks continue to damage cities and key infrastructure. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz made the pledge during a visit to Kyiv, where he said Germany would continue supporting Ukraine despite the pressure created by the long war.
The new support includes money for weapons and systems that can help Ukraine defend itself from Russian drones. Germany also plans to support the production of new drone interceptors. These systems are becoming more important as Russia uses large numbers of drones in attacks across Ukraine.
Merz also announced €350 million for energy infrastructure repairs. Russian strikes have repeatedly damaged power systems, factories and transport links. The damage has created serious problems for Ukrainian cities, especially as the country prepares for another winter during the war.
The German leader said Europe could not simply step away from Ukraine. He argued that the security of Ukraine is closely linked to the security of Europe. His message comes as European governments debate how much longer they can maintain large levels of military and financial support.
Germany has become one of Ukraine’s most important supporters. It has provided air defense systems, ammunition and other military equipment. Berlin has also backed European efforts to keep Ukraine’s economy operating during the war.
During Merz’s visit, German and Ukrainian companies signed 14 agreements worth about €6.6 billion. The deals cover areas such as air defense, radar equipment and drone technology. The agreements show that support for Ukraine is not limited to government aid.
Business cooperation is becoming part of the wider European strategy. Ukraine needs private investment to rebuild factories, roads, energy systems and other infrastructure. German companies see opportunities in reconstruction, but the security situation remains a major risk.
Russia continued its attacks while Merz was in Kyiv. Russian drones and missiles hit several areas, including infrastructure in the capital. The timing of the attacks highlighted the difficult security situation facing Ukraine.
The Ukrainian government has repeatedly asked Western countries for more air defense systems. Drones are cheap compared with many missile systems, allowing Russia to launch large numbers in a single attack. Ukraine needs enough interceptors to protect both military targets and civilian infrastructure.
Merz also said Germany would not be intimidated by Russian pressure. His government has taken a strong position in support of Ukraine, even though the conflict has created economic and political pressure across Europe.
The war has already changed Germany’s defense policy. Berlin has increased military spending and moved away from the idea that Europe could rely mainly on diplomacy and trade to maintain security.
The latest aid package is part of that wider change. Germany wants Ukraine to have enough weapons to defend itself while European countries continue to search for a political solution.
The October 5 announcement also comes as peace discussions remain uncertain. The United States has been working on possible talks, but major disagreements between Russia and Ukraine remain.
For Kyiv, continued European support is essential. For Germany, supporting Ukraine has become a key part of its security policy.
The new aid will not end the war on its own. But it gives Ukraine more tools to defend its cities and energy systems. It also sends a political message that Germany is prepared to remain involved as Europe faces one of its biggest security crises in decades.
