Ukraine says Germany’s Leopard 2 tank would give its troops more protection and mobility. File photograph: Felix Schmitt/The New York Times Ukraine is a step closer to winning approval for German-made modern battle tanks to confront Russian forces and has secured a pledge of more Patriot defence missiles as its allies appear ready to rally for the next phase of the war. Germany’s Leopard 2 tank, operated by armies in about 20 countries, is regarded as one of the West’s best. The tank weighs more than 60 tonnes and can hit targets at a distance of up to 5km. Ukraine,...