0 out of 25,000

Quality journalism takes work — and a community that cares.
Help us reach 25,000 members by the end of 2025.

News Feed

Zelensky: Ukraine to receive new Patriot air defense systems this winter

2 min read
Zelensky: Ukraine to receive new Patriot air defense systems this winter
A Patriot anti-aircraft missile system launcher stands at the air base on June 17, 2023, in Bavaria, Germany. (Karl-Josef Hildenbrand/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Ukraine will receive several new Patriot air defense systems this winter, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Dec. 19 without revealing their number.

Air defenses are of vital importance as Russia began intensifying its attacks against Ukrainian cities and infrastructure, echoing its strategy from the previous winter.

"I would like to acknowledge our partners and our Air Force of Ukraine. The strengthening of air defense is very important," Zelensky said during a press conference.

"This winter is different, with losses and challenges. But we are getting stronger, more powerful. I had a serious business trip. Several new Patriot systems will be in Ukraine to protect our country in winter."

Ukraine received two Patriot systems from the U.S. and Germany in the spring and an additional one from Germany last week.

Zelensky also said that he expects one additional system from Berlin, highlighting German Chancellor Olaf Scholz's support for Kyiv.

"We expect another Patriot system from him (Scholz) personally, and this is a very important decision for us. We understand where it will be, how it will help this region, which is fighting for its life every day," the president said.

Highly capable Patriot systems play a vital role in protecting Ukraine's airspace, as they have proven themselves effective even against advanced Russian missiles like Kh-47M2 Kinzhal.

Zelensky: Military proposes to mobilize 450,000-500,000 new soldiers
Avatar
Martin Fornusek

Reporter

Martin Fornusek is a reporter for the Kyiv Independent, specializing in international and regional politics, history, and disinformation. Based in Lviv, Martin often reports on international politics, with a focus on analyzing developments related to Ukraine and Russia. His career in journalism began in 2021 after graduating from Masaryk University in Brno, Czechia, earning a Master's degree in Conflict and Democracy Studies. Martin has been invited to speak on Times Radio, France 24, Czech Television, and Radio Free Europe. He speaks English, Czech, and Ukrainian.

Read more
News Feed
 (Updated:  )

U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll traveled to Abu Dhabi on Nov. 24 for negotiations with Kyrylo Budanov, Ukraine's military intelligence chief, and a Russian delegation, Driscoll's spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Jeff Tolbert, confirmed to Axios.

Show More