Spanish newspaper “El País” reported on Monday, citing unnamed informed sources, that Spain intends to send Patriot missiles and Leopard tanks to Ukraine as part of a €1.13 billion ($1.23 billion) arms package announced last month.
According to the report, Spain will send 12 anti-aircraft Patriot missiles and 19 used German-made “Leopard 2A4” tanks, along with other Spanish-made weapons such as equipment and ammunition for countering drones to Ukraine. The new weapons package will be announced during an official visit by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Madrid today, where he will meet with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and King Felipe.
The Spanish government approved the package’s value last month, although it did not specify the included weapons. Spokespersons for Sánchez declined to comment on the report from El País
European countries have significantly increased their support for Ukraine in response to the ongoing conflict with Russia. In 2023, the European Union and individual member states have made substantial commitments to military, financial, and humanitarian aid.
As of March 2024, the EU agreed to provide a substantial package of €5 billion in military aid as part of a revamped European Peace Facility fund, aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
The UK and France have been particularly proactive. In the final weeks of 2023, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to prevent a Russian victory, which they perceive as a potential threat to the entire continent.
Moreover, several European countries convened in January 2023 to pledge new military aid to Ukraine, indicating ongoing support and solidarity.
