President of Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz Discuss Increased Investment in Ukrainian Drone Production

10 July 2025 - 17:53

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz Discuss Increased Investment in Ukrainian Drone Production

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Federal Chancellor of Germany Friedrich Merz.

The Head of State thanked Germany for its European leadership in providing military support to Ukraine and specifically highlighted Germany’s contribution to strengthening Ukraine’s air defense – including the supply of Patriot and IRIS-T systems.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Friedrich Merz for participating in the Ukraine Recovery Conference and for the important messages of support for our country voiced during his speech.

The Chancellor of Germany noted that Ukraine’s successful European integration will also contribute to its recovery and reaffirmed Germany’s full support along this path. He also called on Slovakia to stop blocking the EU’s 18th sanctions package against Russia.

The Head of State informed Chancellor Merz about Russia’s massive attacks and its tactics of intimidating people.

The two leaders discussed expanding defense cooperation. The President spoke about the use of interceptor drones, which have already proven capable of downing dozens of ‘shaheds’ during a single Russian attack, and called for increased investment in their production.

The Federal Chancellor condemned Russia’s massive strikes, which are targeting civilians almost every night.

The battlefield situation was also addressed. Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that Russian occupiers are currently making no advances on the front and are paying a heavy price for their offensive attempts.

The President thanked Germany for its willingness to help procure effective U.S.-made weapons that save lives.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Friedrich Merz also discussed the importance of strengthening transatlantic unity, coordinated next steps in diplomacy, and agreed to remain in constant contact.