**Germany and Norway Ready to Help Ukraine with Air Defense Systems**
In a significant move, President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Germany and Norway are prepared to purchase three Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine from a US manufacturer. This comes as Ukraine faces intensifying Russian aerial strikes, with over 740 drones and missiles launched against the country in just two days.
According to Zelensky, Germany is willing to pay for two of these powerful systems, while Norway is ready to fund one system. The Ukrainian president also expressed hope that other European partners will join this new financing scheme. This initiative is a response to Kyiv’s calls for Western allies to provide additional air defenses to help repel Russian aerial attacks.
**A Much-Needed Boost**
The Patriots are highly capable air defense systems produced by the US, which have played a crucial role in protecting Ukrainian skies. Ukraine already operates at least six of these systems, provided over the years by countries such as the US, Germany, the Netherlands, and Romania. However, Russia’s recent escalation of aerial strikes has highlighted the need for more robust air defenses.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine requires a total of 10 Patriots to effectively counter Russian aggression. With this new funding initiative from Germany and Norway, it remains to be seen whether other European partners will follow suit.
**International Pressure Grows**
The pressure on Western allies to provide additional air defense systems for Ukraine has been growing in recent weeks. US President Donald Trump has appealed to German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to purchase a Patriot battery, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged European allies to provide their Patriots to help bolster Ukraine’s defenses.
Rubio acknowledged that many European countries possess these systems but are reluctant to part with them. “I hope that will change,” he said. The comments come after confusion surrounding a Pentagon decision to halt some weapons shipments, including Patriot missiles and precision munitions, en route to Ukraine. Deliveries have since resumed, with Trump pledging additional military support for Kyiv.
**The Need for Action**
As Russia continues to escalate its aerial attacks on Ukraine, the international community’s response must be swift and decisive. The provision of air defense systems like the Patriots is a crucial step in helping Ukraine protect its skies and defend against Russian aggression.
Germany and Norway’s willingness to purchase these systems is a positive development, but more needs to be done. As Zelensky emphasized, Ukraine requires 10 Patriots to effectively counter Russia’s aerial attacks. We hope that other European partners will join this initiative and provide the necessary support to help Ukraine protect its skies.
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