Zelensky makes surprise Berlin visit for high-stakes talks with new Chancellor Merz
On Wednesday, May 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was received with military honours in Berlin by newly appointed German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, marking Zelensky’s first visit to the German capital since Merz assumed office earlier this month.
The visit, which remained unconfirmed until today due to heightened security concerns, signals a critical moment in Ukraine-Germany relations as both leaders prepare for intensive discussions on military aid and the possibility of a ceasefire in Ukraine.
Zelensky and Merz are scheduled to hold a working lunch, followed by a joint press conference, where both leaders are expected to address their countries’ evolving partnership in the context of the ongoing war.
The Ukrainian president will also meet with German business leaders to discuss economic cooperation, and later, pay a formal visit to German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier at Bellevue Palace.
Zelensky’s last trip to Berlin was in October, under a different German administration. Today’s visit underscores both the urgency of the situation on the ground in Ukraine and the strategic importance of Germany’s continued support in what Zelensky has repeatedly described as a fight for European security and democratic values.
