Zelenskyy urges Europe to change delivery order for faster Patriot shipments
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Ukraine could receive new Patriot air defense systems sooner if European countries agree to let it move up in the waiting list, said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during his address at the European Council meeting.
The head of state called on European partners to be more active in supporting Ukraine's air defense.
He noted that he had discussed Patriot systems with the US government and defense companies. The issue is that even if new batteries are paid for Ukraine, they would still be delivered according to the existing waiting list, and some countries are ahead of Ukraine. Meanwhile, some nations already have Patriot systems but do not need to use them like Ukraine does.
"We suggest changing the order – if we get the systems now, we’re ready to give them back or replace them when it’s our turn. So please be flexible with our air defense needs – in a time of war, saving lives must be the top priority," Zelenskyy emphasized.
According to the President, air defense support should become a "common European effort" because, when Europe stands together, everyone benefits.
Purchase of Patriot for Ukraine
Earlier, after his visit to the United States, Zelenskyy said Ukraine plans to sign a contract for 25 Patriot air defense systems.
He specified that the deliveries would take place over an extended period, with varying numbers of batteries expected each year.
Zelenskyy also noted that several other countries have already signed contracts with the manufacturer, and Ukraine is now trying to swap places with some of them to speed up its own deliveries.
