The US State Department has approved a proposed sale of 500 Patriot air-defence missiles to Ukraine, with the transaction proceeding to congressional review following the October 30 announcement.
US officials said the proposed sale would strengthen Ukraine’s integrated air and missile defence capabilities. The announcement did not specify when the interceptors could be delivered.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that deliveries under the proposed arrangement might not begin for several years. He urged allies to consider meeting urgent needs from existing stockpiles while replacements are procured.
US authorities said the proposed purchase would be funded through contributions from Ukraine’s partners. Approval of a potential sale should not be confused with the weapons having already been delivered.
Illustrative photograph.