US Approves Sale of 500 Patriot Missiles to Ukraine, but Deliveries May Take Years
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked the US for approving the sale of 500 much-needed Patriot missiles for defense against Russian attacks. However, he warned that deliveries could take years.
The US State Department announced the approval of a $2.1 billion package of Patriot PAC-3 interceptors to help Ukraine defend against Russian ballistic and cruise missile strikes.
Zelensky stated that 500 PAC-3 interceptors could soon become an effective defense package, but deliveries will only begin in a few years. He urged American partners to find a solution to expedite the delivery given the current threat.
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Ukraine has long sought more interceptors to effectively counter Russian missile strikes, especially with winter approaching, when Russia has repeatedly targeted Ukraine's energy infrastructure.
Zelensky emphasized that transferring interceptors now would be the right move, as the US and its partners have sufficient PAC-3 stocks.
The Patriot missile system is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world, capable of defending against various threats.
Most of the Patriot systems Ukraine receives are through NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL), which allows allies to procure military equipment for Kyiv.
According to NATO, as of June 2026, allies have committed over $6 billion to finance the supply of defensive equipment for Ukraine.
