Germany promises Patriot missiles to Ukraine “very soon”

Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed on July 17 that Ukraine will receive Patriot air-defence missile systems “very soon,” following U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement to boost Kyiv’s firepower with increased NATO weapons supplies.

Speaking at a joint press conference in the U.K. alongside British Labour leader Keir Starmer, Merz emphasised Ukraine’s urgent need for advanced long-range strike systems to better defend itself amid ongoing conflict, Caliber.Az reports via foreign media.

He indicated that these capabilities could be operational in Ukraine within weeks, as defence ministers work to finalise logistical arrangements for the transfer. The new supply deal involves European countries sending weapons to Ukraine funded through eventual purchases of replacements from the United States.

President Trump announced earlier this week an agreement with NATO to accelerate weapons deliveries to Kyiv, with some Patriot missile defence systems expected to arrive “within days.” However, NATO officials, including Allied Air Command leader Alexus Grynkewich cautioned that preparations for the transfer were still underway.

Starmer underscored the political backing behind the move, saying Trump “wants Putin to move” and is now “backing that up with military capability.”

Both leaders also stressed the importance of maintaining economic pressure on Russia. Merz called on Trump to support a package of sanctions proposed by U.S. Senator Lindsay Graham, aimed at further isolating Moscow.

By Vugar Khalilov