Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the United States to find urgent solutions to accelerate the supply of its Patriot (PAC-3) interceptor missiles, noting Ukraine's need for 500 missiles to provide air protection during the upcoming winter months amid continued Russian attacks on energy infrastructure.
Zelensky said on Saturday via Telegram that "providing these missiles is essential to enhance Ukrainian defensive capabilities, especially since supply operations may take several years," calling on American partners to find mechanisms that allow for their urgent delivery.
He clarified that his country has requested a winter defense assistance package from Washington, including 100 interceptor missiles for Patriot systems, sufficient for one month, noting that providing 500 missiles would enhance Ukraine's air protection in the coming months.
Zelensky pointed out that Ukraine's vital energy infrastructure has been subjected to more than 30 Russian attacks over the past two years, accusing Moscow of targeting power plants, heating systems, water supplies, bridges, and residential areas as winter approaches.
He noted that the United States and its European partners possess stocks of (PAC-3) missile launch platforms, calling for their provision to Ukraine during the 2026-2027 winter, with the possibility of subsequently replenishing the stocks of partner countries.
The Ukrainian president expressed gratitude to US President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and the US administration for granting the necessary permission, calling for the removal of restrictions and the acceleration of missile supply procedures to ensure the protection of civilians and vital facilities.
It is worth noting that the US State Department approved on Friday a potential military sales deal to Ukraine involving 500 advanced PAC-3 MSE interceptor missiles and related support equipment and services, with a total estimated value of $2.1 billion.
Source: Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA)
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