Biden announces delivery of new Patriot systems, significant strengthening of Ukraine's air defense

During the NATO summit in Washington, US President Joe Biden announced significant support for Ukraine's air defense capabilities. He specified that the Patriot air defense systems will be provided: one by the US, two by Germany and Romania jointly, and another by the Netherlands in collaboration with other partners. Additionally, Italy will transfer the SAMP-T system to Ukraine.

"These five strategic air defence systems will help to protect Ukrainian cities, civilians, and soldiers, and we are coordinating closely with the Ukrainian government so that these systems can be utilised rapidly," said President Biden at the NATO summit opening in Washington.

He also noted that the US, along with its partners, is working to provide dozens of additional strategic air defense systems to Ukraine this year. In the coming months, Ukraine is expected to receive NASAMS, HAWK, IRIS-T, and Gepard air defense systems.

Furthermore, Biden emphasized that the US will redirect interceptors planned for delivery to other countries to Ukraine over the next year.

"As we strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses, we are grateful to the coalition of more than 50 countries that continues to provide security assistance to Ukraine," Biden added.

"Our message to Moscow and the world is clear: Our support for Ukraine is strong and unwavering," Biden stated.

He also asserted that Russia is losing in this war as it suffers casualties on the front lines, Russians are leaving the country, and Ukraine remains free and independent.

"And we know Putin won’t stop in Ukraine. But make no mistake, Ukraine can and will stop Putin," Biden declared in his speech.

The White House announced a meeting between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US leader Joe Biden.

Earlier, it was reported on what Ukraine could expect from the NATO summit in Washington, taking place from July 9 to 11.