Ukraine is set to receive significant military support in its ongoing conflict with Russia, as a refurbished Patriot air-defense system previously stationed in Israel is being sent to bolster its defense capabilities. According to four current and former U.S. officials, discussions are underway among Western allies regarding the logistics of transferring another Patriot system from either Germany or Greece. These details come from officials who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the negotiations.
The officials have refrained from commenting on former President Trump's stance regarding the transfer of additional Patriot systems to Ukraine. James Hewitt, a spokesman for the White House’s National Security Council, emphasized that the council does not disclose specific information about the strength and placement of defense systems. He reiterated President Trump’s commitment to ending the conflict, stating, “President Trump has been clear: he wants the war in Ukraine to end and the killing to stop.”
A former White House official revealed that the Biden administration had secured an agreement with Israel for the transfer of the Patriot air-defense systems back in September, prior to Trump’s election victory. The U.S. Department of Defense confirmed that it continues to supply Ukraine with equipment from previously authorized packages, which includes both weaponry drawn from existing inventories and new acquisitions.
This latest delivery of military equipment comes as Russia intensifies its attacks on Ukraine, including a deadly missile strike on Kyiv on April 24, which was noted as the most lethal assault since last summer. Over the past year, Ukraine has faced challenges in acquiring the requested seven Patriot systems. Currently, Ukraine operates eight systems, but only six are fully functional. The remaining two systems are undergoing refurbishment, according to one U.S. official.
With the anticipated addition of the refurbished system from Israel, along with another potential transfer from Germany or Greece, Ukraine could possess a total of ten Patriot air-defense systems. This enhancement is primarily aimed at strengthening defenses around the capital city, Kyiv, ensuring greater protection against ongoing threats.
As the situation evolves, the international community remains engaged in discussions to support Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of military aid in the face of escalating aggression from Russia.
