Germany and Norway to fund Patriot systems for Ukraine, decision now up to US
Photo: Patriot air defense system (Getty Images)
Germany and Norway will make a "significant contribution" to the delivery of the US-made Patriot air defense system to Ukraine.
This was announced by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a press conference in Berlin alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, according to NRK.
"Ukraine needs our support. Fortunately, the United States is willing to supply weapons to Ukraine, including with financial contributions from European partners. Germany and Norway will make an important contribution," the German chancellor said.
Støre confirmed Norway’s readiness to participate in the funding effort in cooperation with Germany but emphasized that a final agreement has not yet been reached.
The Norwegian prime minister noted that Germany has two Patriot systems it is prepared to transfer to Ukraine, but Berlin is seeking guarantees they will be replaced.
"They need to be promptly replenished in Germany. This is where the United States comes in. Trump has stated he is ready to assist with this, but there is still no clarity on the timeline. This needs to be clarified," Støre said.
He also urged the United States to clearly explain the current status of preparations for delivering Patriot systems to Ukraine.
Støre described President Donald Trump’s statement expressing readiness to facilitate the transfer as a "good start," but stressed the need for a "clear understanding."
"Once everything is agreed upon, and I hope that will happen soon, Norway is ready to share the costs," the prime minister added.
Patriot systems for Ukraine
Last week, President Donald Trump announced plans to provide additional Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, specifying that NATO allies would cover the costs.
Trump promised a total of 17 Patriot systems for Ukraine.
On Monday, July 21, the 29th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (Ramstein format) took place. During the meeting, coalition members pledged further support for Ukraine’s air defense, including Patriot systems.
Germany and the United States agreed to provide Ukraine with five Patriot systems. While Trump claimed the systems would be delivered swiftly, experts warn that implementing the agreement could take several months.
