As Russia intensifies attacks, Zelenskyy turns to Berlin for missile and drone support

Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived in Berlin on Wednesday to meet newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

The visit comes amid an escalation in Russia’s bombing campaign and Ukraine’s push for advanced military aid, including long-range missiles and investment in domestic drone production.

Germany remains Ukraine’s second-largest military supporter after the United States. Chancellor Merz, who took office three weeks ago, has been actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to secure a ceasefire and maintain Western unity in backing Ukraine. His administration has lifted previous restrictions on the range of weapons supplied to Kyiv, signalling a shift from the stance of his predecessor, Olaf Scholz.

A key topic during Zelenskyy's visit is the possible supply of Taurus long-range cruise missiles, a German-Swedish system with a range of 500 km. While Merz supported providing these weapons while in opposition, his government has not yet confirmed a decision, citing a policy of “strategic ambiguity.”

Zelenskyy also stated that Ukraine is ready to hold peace talks, proposing a trilateral meeting involving himself, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and US President Donald Trump. “We are ready to meet at the level of leaders,” Zelenskyy said, expressing openness to both trilateral and separate negotiations.

Meanwhile, Russia continues its aerial assaults. On Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, Russian defences claimed to have downed nearly 300 Ukrainian drones across 13 regions, including over 30 near Moscow. Ukrainian infrastructure, particularly railways in Kharkiv, Donetsk and Sumy, also came under attack.

Zelenskyy highlighted Ukraine’s need for $30 billion in additional financing to ramp up its own drone and missile manufacturing to counter Russia’s industrial capacity. He urged European partners to invest in production of attack drones, air defence systems, and missile technologies.

As fighting persists along the 1,000-kilometre front line, Ukraine hopes Merz’s visit will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also reinforce the country’s access to crucial long-range weapons and manufacturing support.