Berlin is engaged in intensive consultations with partners, particularly the United States, on how to bolster Ukraine’s air defense amid ongoing Russian aerial attacks.
This was stated during a briefing on Friday, July 4, by German federal government Spokesperson Steffen Kornelius, according to a Ukrinform correspondent.
Kornelius noted that “very intensive discussions” are underway regarding how to supply Ukraine with defensive capabilities, especially air defense systems. He did not directly answer whether Germany plans to purchase Patriot systems from the U.S. for transfer to Ukraine, only saying that “various options are being considered.”
He also declined to comment on reports about a pause in U.S. military aid to Ukraine, adding only that Berlin views this as “a purely temporary signal.”
Meanwhile, German Defense Ministry Spokesman Mitko Müller announced that Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is planning a visit to Washington later this month.
He recalled that Pistorius launched the “Immediate Air Defense Action Initiative” last year, through which Germany and its partners jointly raised approximately €1 billion for direct investment into air defense systems and ammunition.
“Now Minister Pistorius wants to continue this initiative and turn it into a ‘Long-Term Air Defense Initiative,’ to ensure continued support together with partners. That’s one part. The other part is that the minister will travel to Washington in mid-July to discuss these topics with his U.S. counterpart,” Müller stated.
Müller stressed that support and production of air defense systems are long-term efforts — “not something you can just take off the shelf.” He pointed out that production capacity is crucial, and global demand is high due to the Russian threat.
“Our special team is working daily to prepare and accelerate deliveries as efficiently as possible. But beyond funding, industrial capacity is a key limiting factor — this must be clearly understood,” he said.
“Nevertheless, these bilateral and multinational agreements are extremely important for mobilizing any remaining resources. That’s why the trip to Washington in mid-July is so significant.”
Earlier reports indicated that Germany is negotiating with the U.S. about purchasing Patriot systems for Ukraine.
Photo credit: deschide.md
Source: Berlin holds talks with Washington on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense
