Germany announced on Saturday that it will send an additional Patriot air defense system to Ukraine to help defend against increased Russian aerial attacks. This will be the third Patriot system provided by Berlin to Kyiv, in response to a request from the Ukrainian government and in coordination with allies. Chancellor Olaf Scholz reaffirmed Germany’s solidarity with Ukraine during a phone call with President Volodymyr Zelensky, discussing the need for further support to boost Ukraine’s air defense.
Russia has intensified aerial attacks on Ukraine, including targeting energy facilities, causing immense damage. Germany has shifted from a traditionally pacifist stance to become Ukraine’s second-largest supplier of military aid, behind the United States. Despite delivering various armaments, Germany faced criticism for withholding long-range Taurus missiles over fears of their potential use against Russia.
The German defense ministry will begin the handover of the new Patriot system to Ukraine immediately, as Kyiv struggles on the battlefield due to a lack of foreign aid and essential resources. The situation highlights the urgent need for international support to help Ukraine fend off Russian aggression and protect its infrastructure and armed forces.
