**Germany Ready to Buy US Patriot Systems for Ukraine: Merz**
As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, Germany is taking steps to bolster the country’s air defense capabilities. According to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Berlin is prepared to purchase additional Patriot air defense systems from the United States and transfer them to Ukraine.
This move comes as Ukrainian cities face increased aerial attacks by Russian forces. On July 10, Moscow launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine, firing 397 drones and 18 missiles, primarily targeting Kyiv. The attack resulted in two deaths and at least 24 injuries.
Speaking at the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome, Merz revealed that he had asked US President Donald Trump to supply Patriots to Ukraine. “We are also prepared to purchase additional Patriot systems from the U.S. to make them available to Ukraine,” Merz said. The German chancellor noted that while the Americans may need some of these systems themselves, they have a significant surplus.
A final decision on the delivery has not yet been made, but this move would mark a significant shift in Germany’s military support for Ukraine. It also highlights the complexities of US foreign policy under Trump’s administration, which has provided conflicting signals on aid to Kyiv.
**The Proposal: A New Deal for Ukraine?**
According to reports by Axios and The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), the White House is considering a deal where Germany would sell a Patriot battery to Ukraine. The proposal involves the US and European allies sharing the cost, marking a new level of cooperation on military aid.
This development follows a series of conflicting signals from Washington. Just days ago, the Pentagon announced a pause in deliveries of key military aid to Kyiv, including Patriot interceptors and precision-guided munitions. However, Trump later denied involvement in this decision and expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin for failing to pursue a ceasefire.
**What’s Next?**
The proposed transfer would mark Trump’s first major new weapons package to Ukraine, not initiated by the previous Biden administration. If approved, it would be a significant boost to Kyiv’s air defense capabilities, particularly given the recent uptick in Russian aerial attacks.
Ukraine has repeatedly urged Western partners to expand air defense coverage as Russian forces continue to target cities with drones, missiles, and aerial bombs. With Patriot batteries playing a crucial role in Ukraine’s layered air defense system, this new transfer could make a significant difference on the battlefield.
**The Bigger Picture**
This development highlights the ongoing complexities of international cooperation on military aid for Ukraine. As Western partners work together to bolster Kyiv’s defenses, it also underscores the challenges facing Trump’s administration in balancing competing priorities and interests.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to unfold.
