Ukraine war: Spain offers Kyiv US$1.1 billion in military aid during Zelensky visit, amid Russia’s offensive in Kharkiv
- Spanish media report that the deal would include new Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks, as Ukraine battle a Russian ground offensive in Kharkiv
- Until now, Madrid has only provided limited military aid to Kyiv
Spain on Monday pledged one billion euros (US$1.1 billion) in military aid to Ukraine as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a security deal in Madrid.
“It is more important than ever to redouble our support,” Sanchez told a joint news conference.
“It will allow Ukraine to boost its capabilities including its essential air defence systems to protect its civilians, cities and infrastructure which are still suffering indiscriminate attacks as seen this weekend in Kharkiv,” he said, referring to a Russian strike on the northeastern city that killed at least 16 people.
Zelensky’s visit comes as Ukraine has been battling a Russian ground offensive in the Kharkiv region, which began on May 10 in Moscow’s biggest territorial advance in 18 months.
With the Russian assault now in its third year, Ukraine has been pleading for more weapons for its outgunned and outnumbered troops, notably seeking help to address its lack of air defence systems.
According to El País newspaper, the deal would include new Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks.
Zelensky has already signed bilateral security agreements with several countries including France, Germany and the UK.