Zelenskyy Makes Surprise Visit to Berlin for Talks With Merz Ahead of Abu Dhabi Talks

The update

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to arrive in Berlin around midday on Tuesday for an unexpected visit and talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Merz confirmed the visit during a speech in Berlin on Tuesday morning, saying it was kept secret for security reasons. Zelenskyy’s trips abroad are usually announced only at the last moment. The talks are expected to focus on military and financial support for Ukraine.

Why it matters

Ukraine is seeking more missiles to defend against Russian ballistic strikes, including for US-made Patriot air defence systems, and has asked European governments for an additional 70 billion euros in funding next year. Germany has already supplied the Patriot systems it says it can spare without weakening its own air defences. The Berlin meeting comes during a renewed push for peace talks with Moscow, and ahead of talks involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States.

What to watch

Advisers from Ukraine, Russia and the United States are due to meet in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11 to discuss postwar security, steps to reduce tensions and humanitarian aid. US envoys are due to discuss security guarantees and reconstruction with European and NATO representatives in Brussels this week, and Berlin plans to host a summit of countries backing Ukraine later this month.

Sources

• dw.com — confirms Merz’s announcement, the midday timing, the support agenda and the Abu Dhabi dates
• theguardian.com — confirms the unexpected visit, Merz’s confirmation and the talks ahead of Abu Dhabi