Romanian president passes amendments to send Kiev Patriots: Reports
2 Min Read
Romanian broadcaster Digi24 reports that the country's national defense ministry is authorized to allocate funds to cover expenses of restoring ground-based air defense capabilities.
-
A Patriot rocket launcher system of the Romanian army is on the static display during an army drill at the Capu Midia military shooting range next to the Black Sea, November 15, 2023. (AFP)
Romanian President Klaus Iohannis has approved legislative amendments that will enable the provision of a Patriot air defense system to Ukraine, local broadcaster Digi24 reported on Thursday, citing a regulatory document.
In May, President Klaus Iohannis was open to discussions entailing the possibility of sending Patriot systems to Kiev but under the condition that his country gets something in return.
Read more: Germany says can no longer give Ukraine Patriot defense systems
The Supreme Defense Council in Romania approved later in June transferring the US-made systems to Ukraine, citing the "deterioration of the security situation in Ukraine, as well as the regional consequences of this situation, including for the security of Romania."
The Digi24 report added that the country's national defense ministry is authorized to allocate the necessary funds to cover fees and commissions associated with the restoration of ground-based air defense capabilities.
For months, Ukraine has been requesting seven additional Patriot systems amid severe losses in the US-made anti-air system.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said last month that Kiev requires 25 Patriot air defense systems to fully safeguard its airspace, though he did not reveal the current number of the system his country possesses.
Read more: Trump accuses Ukraine of faking death toll, claims number is higher
On July 10, the US, Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands announced at NATO's 75th anniversary summit that they are providing Ukraine with four Patriot systems.
President Joe Biden described the "historic donation," adding, "This is a pivotal moment for Europe, for the transatlantic community, and, I might add, for the world," he added.
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg also urged alliance members to continue their support for Kiev, warning that a Russian victory would pose the "greatest risk" to the alliance.
"The outcome of this war will shape global security for decades to come," Stoltenberg emphasized.
