US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine
The US State Department has approved the sale of 500 Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine to bolster its defense against Russian aerial attacks. The $2.1 billion purchase is funded by international allies including Canada, Germany, and Norway.
Why it matters
This provides critical defensive capabilities to Ukraine during a period of intensified conflict and supply shortages.
Image source, EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock Image caption, President Volodymyr Zelensky has recently admitted that Ukraine was running critically low on Patriots
The US has approved the sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, a critically-needed munition for defence against escalating Russian aerial attacks, after Kyiv said deliveries had been delayed in recent months.
The US State Department said the advanced PAC-3 interceptor missiles would cost $2.1bn (£1.6bn) and would be "funded entirely" by Kyiv's allies in Europe and Canada.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly urged the US to speed up deliveries of its Patriots - the only effective weapon in downing Russia's deadly ballistic missiles.
The latest move comes just days after a row between Zelensky and Donald Trump, with the US president saying it was time for Ukraine to get a new leader to try to end the war with Russia.
Headlinne story · 3 newsrooms
State Department Clears Interceptor Deal for Ukraine as Kyiv Pleads for Immediate Stockpiles
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