Germany intends to secure a discreet agreement with the United States to procure two Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine, according to sources within the German government. Recent reports from the US indicated that the White House had halted the delivery of several critical weapons to Ukraine, including Patriot and Hellfire missiles, GMLRS rockets, and thousands of 155mm artillery shells. American officials have confirmed a temporary suspension of some arms shipments, stating that the decision is aimed at prioritizing national interests. This halt has sparked concern in Berlin, sources revealed, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration worried that the change in policy might affect a pending US request to purchase Patriot systems and interceptors.
Berlin reportedly contacted US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth two weeks ago following a Ukrainian request after its independent attempt to acquire the systems failed. German officials are currently awaiting Hegseth’s response. The absence of robust air defenses is considered a critical issue for Ukraine, which has only four operational Patriot units remaining and a limited supply of missiles. Should Ukraine deplete its interceptor stocks, Russian air assaults could pose an increased threat.
Separately, reports have surfaced that Ukrainian officials were taken by surprise by the US decision to pause military aid and have urged Washington to permit European nations to procure American weapons on their behalf. Several European nations are exploring the possibility of purchasing US arms for Ukraine. Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov alleged that the US is unable to produce the required quantity of missiles, suggesting that supplies might have been redirected to Israel amid its recent conflict with Iran. He added that fewer international missile deliveries to Ukraine would expedite the conclusion of Russia’s military campaign in the region.
