Germany to supply Ukraine with more Leopard tanks amid efforts to boost Kyiv’s defence
- 7 September, 08:59
Germany will send Ukraine more Leopard tanks and PzH 2000 self-propelled guns amid efforts to boost Kyiv’s defences against Russian aggression, German Defense Minister Pistorius announced during a press conference this week.
Pistorius highlighted the importance of this new aid package in strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities, adding that the delivery of these Leopard tanks is part of a trilateral cooperation between Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands. The 77 Leopard 1A5 tanks, expected to be delivered in the coming months, will join those previously sent as part of the same cooperation.
The decision on delivery of Leopard tanks to Ukraine timed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s visit to Germany where he was attending a meeting of the Contact Group on Ukraine's defense. During the meeting, Zelenskiy met German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, US and German Defense Ministers Lloyd Austin and Boris Pistorius. Following his meeting with Scholz, Zelenskiy thanked the German Chancellor for providing Ukraine with comprehensive assistance, especially military, since the beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion. “This is very important. This is the foundation of our successful struggle for Ukraine's independence. Thank you for your leadership in strengthening our air defense system, which saves the lives of Ukrainians,” Zelenskiy explained.
The Ukrainian leader also said that during the talks, they also discussed the implementation of the Peace Formula and preparations for the second Peace Summit.
