Romania Donates PATRIOT Air Defense System to Ukraine

Romania will donate a PATRIOT air defense system to Ukraine to help counter Russian attacks on civilian areas and infrastructure. This move is part of a coordinated effort with NATO allies to support Kyiv.

Romania has announced its decision to donate a PATRIOT air defense system to Ukraine. This move aims to assist Kyiv in its ongoing conflict with Russia, where Moscow's forces continue to target civilian areas and critical energy infrastructure.

The decision was announced after a meeting of Romania’s Supreme Council of National Defence in Bucharest, chaired by President Klaus Iohannis. It was made in coordination with Romania’s allies and depends on Romania obtaining a similar or equivalent air defense system to replace the one being donated. Romania possesses several U.S.-made PATRIOT systems, and the one to be sent to Ukraine is part of this inventory.

“The decision was based on an in-depth technical evaluation by the Romanian authorities, with all necessary measures taken to eliminate any potential vulnerabilities for Romania,” stated the office of President Iohannis. “At the same time, discussions with allies will continue to ensure our country’s air defense remains robust.”

This donation is part of a broader international effort to bolster Ukraine's defenses. The U.S. has previously donated a PATRIOT air and missile defense system to Ukraine and approved sending another earlier this month. Other NATO allies, such as Germany, have also provided air defense systems to Ukraine. U.S. officials have consistently encouraged allied nations to contribute air defense systems to Ukraine. However, some Eastern European countries have been hesitant to part with their advanced systems due to security concerns.

Romania's decision underscores the increasing support for Ukraine among NATO allies, despite the complexities of ensuring each contributing country maintains its own security. The ongoing conflict has seen numerous attacks on Ukraine's infrastructure, making air defense systems crucial for protecting both civilian lives and essential services.