Zelensky confirms Kiev received additional Patriot missile systems

The Ukrainian leader confirmed that Germany had delivered the US-made air defense batteries.

Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky has announced that Kyiv has taken delivery of additional US-made Patriot air defense systems from Germany.

Ukraine has been pushing its Western allies for more long-range weaponry, including Tomahawk cruise missiles and additional Patriot batteries. The New York Times reported in May that while the country possessed eight Patriot systems, only six were operational.

On Sunday, Zelensky thanked German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in a post on X. He stated: “Our agreements have been fulfilled. More Patriots are now in Ukraine and are being put into service.”

He further added: “Naturally, more systems are essential to protect vital infrastructure sites and our cities across Ukraine’s entire territory. We will continue to work towards obtaining them – not only through political discussions with states and leaders but also directly with the manufacturers of all necessary air defense systems and their missiles.”

The Russian Defense Ministry has asserted that it has destroyed approximately 40 Patriot launchers since 2023.

While US President Donald Trump has refused to supply Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles, he has authorized NATO countries to purchase American weapons on Kyiv’s behalf. Moscow has consistently stated that no amount of foreign aid will alter the battlefield situation in Ukraine’s favor.

Last month, Zelensky stated that Ukraine and the US were preparing a contract for 25 Patriot systems. He added that deliveries might take years unless EU states exhibit “goodwill” by prioritizing Kyiv or transferring systems they already possess.

With each system costing approximately $1 billion, Ukraine aims to finance these purchases through an EU loan supported by frozen Russian assets. Russia has condemned any attempt to confiscate its assets as theft.