Russian strikes hit Kyiv during Merz visit; Germany pledges military aid

Russian airstrikes and explosions occurred in Kyiv while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz met with President Zelensky, underscoring Moscow's intent to disrupt high-level diplomatic engagement. Merz announced new German military aid to Ukraine, reinforcing Western backing amid ongoing hostilities. The strikes mark a direct challenge to allied support, though details on aid specifics and damage remain unclear.