German Chancellor Friedrich Merz defied threats from Moscow to visit Kyiv, announcing a €1.35 billion aid package and signing 15 new defense agreements with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Merz pledged €1 billion in military support and €350 million to repair bombed energy infrastructure, declaring that aiding Ukraine “is in line with Germany’s deeply important national interests.” The newly signed agreements focus on air defense and joint drone production, allowing both nations to share vital battlefield technology and manufacturing capabilities. Highlighting the mutual benefits of the deal, Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine is also sharing its combat experience to help establish drone units within Germany. Vowing to stand by Kyiv until the war ends, Merz emphasized that a lasting resolution “must be negotiated, it should not be imposed on Ukraine or on Europe.”