Borrell: Cheaper to Buy Patriots Than Restore Infrastructure Ruined by Russia

The EU believes preventing Ukraine’s further destruction must take precedence over discussions of reconstruction, argues EU foreign affairs chief Josep Borrell in a statement to Le Monde. He asserts that acquiring Patriot missile defense systems is more cost-effective than rebuilding infrastructure like power plants targeted by Russia.

Responding to questions regarding France’s role in supporting Ukraine compared to Germany’s, Borrell urged that all EU nations increase their contributions. “My role isn’t to point fingers at any specific country but to develop a common position. The total figure is important, but I understand that this sum comprises very different concepts,” he said.

Borrell highlights the urgency of the situation:

In a year, it might be too late. Before discussing Ukraine’s reconstruction, we must prevent its destruction. It’s cheaper to buy Patriot systems than to restore the power plant targeted by the Russians.

Ukraine has been bolstering its air defenses since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The need intensified following renewed Russian attacks on energy infrastructure. Germany has pledged to support Ukraine in acquiring additional air defense systems and will examine global stockpiles for systems suitable for Ukraine. Germany recently announced it would send an additional Patriot system.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently stated that Ukraine needs 25 Patriot systems to fully protect its airspace. Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba says Ukraine has located 100 available Patriot systems worldwide and aims to acquire at least 7.

Ukraine also seeks Samp-T systems for ballistic missile interception. It is currently negotiating for two Patriot batteries and one Samp-T battery.