Germany is reportedly considering acquiring more Patriot air defence systems from the United States to bolster Ukraine’s defences following escalating Russian aerial assaults, a government spokesperson confirmed on Friday.
When questioned about reports that Berlin had initiated talks with Washington regarding a new deal for anti-missile systems, government spokesman Stefan Kornelius said, “I can confirm that more intensive discussions are indeed underway.”
The US, Ukraine’s largest military supporter since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022, announced on Tuesday a pause in some key weapons deliveries to Kyiv. Among those affected were Patriot missile defence systems, which Ukraine uses to counter Russian attacks.
In recent weeks, Moscow has intensified missile and drone strikes on Ukrainian targets, while US support under President Donald Trump appeared uncertain.
German officials have expressed particular concern about the consequences of a possible halt in Patriot system and ammunition supplies, according to German newspaper Bild.
Berlin has reportedly approached US officials with a proposal to purchase the systems directly on Ukraine’s behalf and then transfer them to Kyiv, Bild added.
The German government is awaiting a response from US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth following a request for two Patriot units submitted “several weeks ago,” the publication stated.
Ukraine has consistently highlighted the urgent need to strengthen its air defences, especially through acquiring more Patriot systems, but has faced difficulties securing sufficient quantities.
In April, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky declared his government aimed to obtain “at least” 10 Patriot units to better shield against Russian attacks.
