Germany in 'intensive talks' to provide Patriot systems to Ukraine

When asked whether Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government is negotiating with the US about purchasing Patriot systems to send to Kyiv, Kornelius said there are "different ways" to meet Ukraine's air defense needs.

The German chief government spokesman also added that one of the options under consideration is buying the Patriot defense system from the United States and subsequently transferring it to Ukraine.

"I can say that intensive discussions are indeed taking place on this matter," Kornelius told reporters in Berlin.

According to Reuters, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius will travel to Washington later this month for talks with his American counterpart, a Defense Ministry Spokesperson said.

"Of course, Patriots will also be on the agenda," the Spokesperson added.

Deal with US

Earlier, Bild reported that the German government plans to reach an agreement with the US to purchase Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine.

According to its information, Berlin is awaiting a commitment from the US to transfer two Patriot air defense systems to Germany, which will be financed by the German government.

The problem is that Ukraine has already tried to buy air defense systems from the US, but unsuccessfully. After that, Kyiv turned to Germany for help.

Earlier, the White House stated that the US has temporarily suspended arms deliveries to Ukraine, including critical missiles for the Patriot air defense systems. The US State Department said Kyiv had been warned in advance about the suspension of aid.

According to Politico, Kyiv intends to ask Washington to allow European countries to purchase US weapons for the Ukrainian army.