Germany Confirms Only Six Patriot Systems Remain Amid Ukraine Support Limits

Germany has confirmed it cannot provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems as it only has six remaining from an original stock of twelve, with some units already transferred to Ukraine and Poland, and others undergoing maintenance or training. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius emphasized that these limited numbers prevent further transfers due to NATO capability goals, though he plans to discuss purchasing two more Patriot systems from the US to send to Ukraine. Germany also ruled out supplying Ukraine with its long-range Taurus missiles, citing political risks associated with their use. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump announced the US would supply more Patriot missiles to Ukraine, with the European Union expected to cover the costs, framing it as a business deal. Ukraine continues to seek increased Western air defense support amid ongoing conflict with Russia, with multiple partners negotiating multi-layered agreements to enhance Ukraine's missile defense capabilities. Germany has committed to financing the production of similar systems capable of striking deep into Russian territory, expected to arrive in Ukraine by the end of July.