Zelensky thanks Germany for Patriot air defense systems delivery
Ukraine’s President, Volodymyr Zelensky, announced that Germany has transferred Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, following a critical agreement between the two nations, BBC News reports.
This military aid significantly boosts Kyiv's capabilities against aerial threats.
"We have significantly strengthened the Ukraine air defense system with this 'Patriot' component," Zelensky wrote on social media. "I thank Germany and Chancellor Friedrich Merz for this joint step in protecting human lives from Russian terror."
He added: "We have been preparing this crucial defense capability for some time, and now the agreed understandings have been fulfilled."
The Ukrainian leader did not specify the number of installations offered. However, previous announcements indicated that Germany, together with the government of Norway, is co-financing two full Patriot systems, including the related missiles. Ukraine was expected to receive them by the end of this year.
In early August, reports suggested that Germany would deliver the launchers, with the rest of the necessary components to be sent within two to three months.
Concurrently, Berlin agreed to transfer its own Patriot systems to Ukraine after receiving firm assurances from the United States that Germany would be prioritized on the producer's delivery list.
Ukraine continues to lobby the United States and other Western allies for additional Patriot air defense systems to defend against the massive missile attacks that Russia periodically launches against the country's critical infrastructure.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
