Press conference with Federal Chancellor Merz and Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy
“The German people stand behind Ukraine and the German government stands behind the Ukrainian government”, said Federal Chancellor Merz in Kyiv. Despite the morning’s attacks, he said he saw a determined people and a determined government in Ukraine.
- Transcript of press conference
- Sunday, 4 October 2026
At the joint press conference, Federal Chancellor Merz assured Ukraine of his continued support.
Photo: Federal Government/Tobias Koch
“We will do everything we can to help Ukraine until this terrible war is finally over”, emphasised Federal Chancellor Friedrich Merz in his joint press statement with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv. Merz said that he wanted his visit to send a message “at a time that is crucial for the future not only of Ukraine, but also of Europe as a whole”. “We stand by your side for a free Ukraine and for a safe and peaceful Europe, in which we see our shared future”, said Merz.
In addition, he stated that there were plans to strengthen cooperation between Germany and Ukraine, including in the defence industry, which was why he was being accompanied by a business delegation. The close cooperation, he said, benefits both sides. “Germany is helping Ukraine. But Ukraine is also helping Germany”, said the Chancellor.
Read the transcript of the press conference here (in German only):