Latvian Prime Minister Evika Siliņa announced Thursday that Ukraine will receive additional U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems, marking a major boost to its ability to defend against ongoing Russian missile and drone assaults.

“There is a commitment to help Ukraine with new Patriot systems,” Siliņa said after a joint call with Ukraine’s Western partners. “How that will happen and when that will happen, I think that is restricted information. But there is good news—yes, there will be Patriots.”

Air Defense A Top Priority Amid Drone Onslaught

The announcement comes as Ukraine faces a surge in aerial attacks, including a recent record-setting drone barrage of over 700 Shahed drones launched by Russia in one night. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly appealed for more advanced air defense capabilities, citing depleted interceptors and increased civilian casualties.

Patriot systems are among the most advanced Western anti-missile platforms, capable of intercepting ballistic and cruise missiles as well as aircraft and drones. Their deployment has become a symbol of Western military backing.

Coordination With U.S. And Germany Ongoing

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who also participated in the call, stated that discussions about U.S. deliveries are ongoing. He had lobbied U.S. President Donald Trump last week to authorize new Patriot shipments.

While neither Washington nor Berlin has formally announced specific delivery schedules, the Latvian premier’s statement signals that negotiations have progressed toward implementation.