Ukraine announced on Friday that it has received its third Patriot air defense system from Germany, following ongoing appeals for advanced equipment to shield its infrastructure from persistent Russian air assaults. This delivery marks a significant addition to Ukraine’s defensive capabilities as it grapples with renewed aerial attacks on its power grid.
Since the spring, Moscow has intensified its bombardment of Ukraine’s national power infrastructure, resulting in widespread blackouts. In response to these renewed threats, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that Ukraine required at least seven more Patriot systems to adequately protect its critical infrastructure.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense expressed gratitude on the social media platform X, acknowledging the arrival of the system and Germany’s steadfast support.
“This delivery will enhance the protection of our civilians and infrastructure,” stated Martin Jaeger, the German Ambassador to Ukraine, also on X. He confirmed that Ukrainian personnel had completed the necessary training in Germany to operate the system effectively.
The development comes as Kyiv prepares for an upcoming NATO summit in Washington, where it hopes to secure further commitments on air defense supplies. A senior U.S. State Department official has indicated that Ukraine is likely to receive positive news at the summit, potentially bolstering its air defense capabilities even further.
Russia, which launched its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, continues to utilize missiles and drones for long-range strikes, posing a significant threat to Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.
