Germany's Scholz makes surprise visit to Kyiv

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz made an unannounced visit to Kyiv on Monday, arriving by overnight train for his second trip to Ukraine since the outbreak of war with Russia.

During his arrival remarks, Scholz praised Ukraine's resilience in defending against Russia for over 1,000 days. He announced a new military aid package worth €650 million ($683 million) to be delivered this month.

“With my renewed visit here in Kyiv, I would like to express my solidarity with Ukraine. And I would like to make it clear here on the ground that Germany will remain Ukraine's strongest supporter in Europe,” Scholz said. “Ukraine can rely on Germany - we say what we do. And we do what we say,” he stressed.

Chancellor Scholz is scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss frontline developments and potential diplomatic initiatives, particularly in light of possible changes in US policy under a future Trump administration.

Scholz's visit comes amid Germany's upcoming federal elections in February 2025, with Ukraine policy emerging as a contentious issue. While mainstream parties back ongoing military aid to Ukraine, opposition groups—including the far-right AfD and left-wing populist BSW—stand against such support.