Germany has announced that it will provide Ukraine with two more Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, following an agreement reached with the US. In return, Washington has committed to speed up deliveries of new complexes to the German armed forces, Reuters reported, quoted by BTA.
According to a statement by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Berlin will deliver additional launchers in the coming days, and within two to three months, additional components of the system.
“Thanks to the US commitment, Germany can initially support Ukraine with the available launchers and then with additional components“, the minister's position says.
In return, the country will receive new Patriot systems from the US with priority delivery. Germany has already provided three of its systems to Ukraine and stressed that the new aid will not affect its role in NATO defense.
The increased support comes amid Ukraine's growing need for air defense assets as Russian air attacks have intensified this summer. The “Patriot“ has proven its effectiveness in intercepting ballistic missiles used by Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that in July alone, Russia used more than 3,800 drones and about 260 missiles in attacks across the country. He thanked international partners for their support and called for increased cooperation to stop Russian aggression.
Meanwhile, the death toll from the Russian missile attack on Kiev on July 31 has reached 31, with 159 injured, including 16 children, the Kiev military administration said. President Zelensky announced the end of the rescue operation operation.