Germany's Merz holds Ukraine arms talks with Trump amid US Patriot supply halt

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will attend the 4th Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome to discuss Germany's support for Ukraine's reforms and reconstruction efforts. Merz has also initiated a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss arms deliveries to Ukraine, especially the procurement of Patriot air defense systems after the Pentagon paused some shipments due to low U.S. stockpiles. Germany is considering buying Patriot missile batteries from the U.S. to quickly fill the gap and support Ukraine's defense against intensified Russian attacks. Alongside arms aid, the conference aims to mobilize international support for Ukraine's economic recovery, skilled labor development, and private sector growth. German officials emphasize the urgent need to address Ukraine's housing and infrastructure challenges amid ongoing conflict and displacement. The talks between Merz and Trump also covered trade issues and Ukraine's air defense, reflecting coordinated efforts to strengthen Ukraine's security and resilience.