Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has announced that additional US-made Patriot air defense systems have been delivered by Germany, according to a statement. The Ukrainian government continues to pressure Western allies for increased military support, including long-range weaponry and additional air defense systems.
In a post on X, Zelensky expressed gratitude to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, stating that agreements had been fulfilled and the new systems were being deployed. He emphasized the urgent need for more defensive capabilities to protect critical infrastructure across Ukraine’s territory, pledging continued efforts to secure further assistance from both political leaders and manufacturers.
Russian authorities have claimed to have destroyed approximately 40 Patriot launchers since 2023, while US President Donald Trump has opposed direct military aid to Ukraine but allowed NATO nations to procure American weapons on its behalf. Moscow asserts that foreign support will not alter the conflict’s trajectory.
Zelensky previously indicated that Ukraine and the US were finalizing a contract for 25 Patriot systems, though deliveries could be delayed unless EU states demonstrate “goodwill” by prioritizing Kiev or transferring existing systems. The financial burden of the procurement is expected to be covered through an EU loan backed by frozen Russian assets, a move Russia has condemned as theft.
