German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv on Saturday for an unannounced visit. His arrival comes as Russia continues its strikes on the Ukrainian capital, with the city's North Bridge being hit shortly after Merz's train pulled into the central railway station.
Sirens were heard across Kyiv, and smoke was visible rising from the Dnieper River bridge. Russian drones also struck another bridge yesterday, causing injuries. The Kremlin has intensified its attacks on the capital this year.
Merz, described as one of Ukraine's strongest European backers, wrote on X: "Ukraine is facing decisive weeks. That is why I travelled to Kyiv today with the message: you can rely on us." He is accompanied by several German defence manufacturers and is expected to meet with President Zelenskyy.