Germany pledges new military, energy aid package for Ukraine

BERLIN, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- Germany pledged a fresh military aid package for Ukraine worth around 1 billion euros (about 1.13 billion U.S. dollars), Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced during his visit to Kiev on Sunday.

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, centre, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz speak to media with National Academy of science building damaged after a Russian drone strike, on the background, Kyiv, Ukraine, Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. (Photo: AP)

According to the German government, the new military aid package focuses primarily on air defense capabilities, including the joint production of interceptors against jet-powered drones.

Merz noted that recent technical breakthroughs in this area would help swiftly strengthen Ukrainian air defenses.

Germany will also provide long-range weapons, satellite technology and combat drones for Ukraine.

In addition, Germany will offer around 350 million euros (394 million dollars) to repair Ukraine's energy infrastructure ahead of the coming winter.

This is Merz's second visit to Kiev since he took office last year.