Zelensky: Ukraine preparing contract with U.S. for 25 Patriot systems

The head of state said this during a press briefing, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“In coordination with the relevant U.S. agencies, we have held discussions with defense companies regarding air defense systems. We are preparing a contract for 25 Patriot systems. I believe this is a very good story — not easy, but long-term,” Zelensky told journalists.

He noted that Patriot production involves queues from countries with existing contracts.

“These 25 systems will be delivered annually, in varying numbers each year. The White House can adjust the queue if there is political will. We understand which European countries could give us priority. There is more positive in this matter — now we are working to obtain the necessary decisions,” the President explained.

Zelensky added that European NATO countries have their own Patriot systems, as well as systems belonging to the U.S.

“This means that if everyone works together and there is good will, the American systems stationed in those European countries could be made available to us,” he emphasized.

He also stated that funding for the Patriot purchase is expected primarily from frozen Russian assets, as well as bilateral security agreements.

“For these systems and quantities, we need appropriate financing. The main source is funds from frozen Russian assets — the financial foundation for this deal is worked out. Of course, we also need other sources. Currently, we have 28 bilateral security agreements. Finding funds and paying advances is realistic within these agreements,” Zelensky said.

The President stressed that the request for 25 Patriot systems comes directly from Ukraine’s Air Force.

Earlier, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said at the Warsaw Security Forum that Germany would deliver two more modern Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine by the end of 2025, with support from Norwegian partners.

Minister of Defense of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal also noted that Ukraine urgently needed assistance from partners, including delivery of 10 Patriot systems.