Spain delivers Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks in latest aid to Ukraine

Spain has delivered a second batch of long-range Patriot anti-aircraft missiles to Ukraine, Spanish media outlet Elmundo reported. This delivery, which arrived on 21 June, complements an initial shipment of defensive weaponry provided at the end of April. Defense Minister Margarita Robles characterized the June shipment as a "significant delivery" during the 25 May ministerial meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group, which her Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov attended. The aid package encompasses various military equipment. "It includes Patriot systems, a second batch of Leopard battle tanks, various types of ammunition, including 155mm artillery shells, anti-drone systems, optronic surveillance and tracking systems, and remote weapon turrets," reports indicate. The delivery aligns with a security agreement signed in Madrid between Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. This accord commits Spain to provide "military support" amounting to 1 billion euros in 2024 to bolster Ukraine's defensive capabilities. Sánchez emphasized the importance of this aid, stating in a joint press conference with Zelenskyy that the funds will allow Ukraine to "reinforce" its defense resources, including "air defense," which he deemed "key" to protecting civilians from Russian attacks. Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the security agreement, describing it as "an important strategic document" demonstrating Spain's reliability as a partner "that does not turn a blind eye to Russia's violation of fundamental norms of International Law." The Ukrainian president specifically acknowledged the new missiles and armored equipment outlined in the agreement, which he noted will also generate "jobs and technology development." Read also:

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