German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced a new aid package for Ukraine worth approximately $1.5 billion during a surprise visit to Kyiv on Sunday. The package includes about $1.1 billion in military assistance and roughly $395 million for energy infrastructure repairs ahead of winter.

The military portion focuses on strengthening Ukraine's air defenses and offensive capabilities. It includes funding for the joint production of interceptor drones to counter Russian jet-powered weapons, long-range strike weapons, combat drones, and satellite technology. Additional elements cover thousands of missiles for IRIS-T air defense systems and new fire units.

Merz stated that the aid would allow Ukraine to target Russian launch sites and that recent technical breakthroughs would accelerate drone interceptor production. "This will quickly and tangibly strengthen Ukraine's air defense," he said.

The energy aid targets repairs to power stations, substations, and generators damaged by Russian attacks. Merz noted Ukraine needs full support in the coming weeks.

The visit occurred as air raid sirens sounded repeatedly in Kyiv and Russian drones struck infrastructure, including a bridge. Merz warned that failing to stop Russia could lead to its war machine turning against the West. "If Russia is not stopped, its war machine will sooner or later be turned against us," he said.

Accompanied by Economy Minister Katherina Reiche and executives from German defense and energy firms, Merz oversaw the signing of broader agreements valued at several billion euros. These cover joint production, procurement, and security cooperation.

Germany has emerged as one of Ukraine's largest donors since the full-scale invasion, providing tens of billions in total support. The latest package underscores Berlin's commitment to bolstering Ukraine's defenses against ongoing Russian aggression.