Allies Push for Patriot Missile Deal for Ukraine Ahead of NATO Summit
Ukraine’s Western allies are in advanced talks to provide additional Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv, aiming to finalize an agreement before the NATO summit in late June, The Gaze reports citing Reuters.
The discussions come as Ukraine urgently seeks to bolster its defenses against relentless Russian missile and drone attacks. President Volodymyr Zelensky recently told CBS News that Ukraine is ready to purchase up to 10 U.S.-made Patriot systems, which are critical for intercepting ballistic missiles.
As of April 2025, Ukrainian military analysts at Defence Express report that seven Patriot systems are currently operational in Ukraine.
The United States and Greece had been floated as possible suppliers. However, Athens firmly denied its participation in the plan, citing ongoing defense sensitivities related to its tensions with NATO member Turkey.
While Greece has previously provided significant military aid to Ukraine, including rockets, IFVs, and ammunition, it has ruled out delivering Patriot batteries.
The New York Times reported that the U.S. is preparing to send a refurbished Patriot system previously stationed in Israel. Talks have also touched on logistical options involving Germany or Greece potentially reallocating systems, though Greece has now officially opted out.
Zelensky noted he recently discussed Ukraine’s air defense needs with U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral, calling it “the best meeting” the two have ever had.
As The Gaze previously reported, Ukraine is expected to receive another U.S.-made Patriot air defense system this summer, which is currently undergoing refurbishment in Israel.