Germany Explores Patriot Buy for Ukraine Amid US Hesitation

Germany is engaged in “intensive talks” to potentially purchase Patriot missile systems for Ukraine, a move that comes as the United States has reportedly halted its latest shipment of crucial military aid, including Patriot missiles, due to a review of its own stockpiles. This European initiative underscores the urgent need to bolster Ukraine’s air defense, particularly after Russia launched a devastating, record-breaking aerial assault on Kyiv.
The German government spokesperson confirmed that “various ways to fill this Patriot gap” are being considered, with one option being direct acquisition of systems in the US for transfer to Ukraine. This proactive approach by Germany contrasts with the current US posture, which is marked by President Donald Trump’s “disappointment” with Vladimir Putin’s refusal to make concessions on peace.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a “good conversation” with Trump, where discussions centered on Ukraine’s air defense, joint defense production, and “mutual purchases and investments.” These efforts by Zelenskyy aim to incentivize the Trump administration to resume aid shipments, as Ukraine faces persistent and intensified Russian bombardments.
The timing of Russia’s massive attack on Kyiv, immediately following the Trump-Putin call, was interpreted by Zelenskyy as a deliberate message from Moscow. This emphasizes the critical need for continued international support for Ukraine’s air defense, with Germany’s potential intervention offering a crucial lifeline.