Patriot licenses for Ukraine 'being negotiated as we speak,' Rubio says after week of Russian strikes on Kyiv

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed on Sept. 2 that negotiations are underway for Ukraine to obtain licenses to manufacture its own Patriot air defense systems. The talks are described as "being negotiated as we speak," according to Rubio. However, Rubio clarified that simply having a license does not expedite the process of ramping up production, which takes years.

Ukraine currently faces a severe shortage of air defense systems, and Rubio emphasized that even with a license, the immediate challenge on the ground would remain significant. President Trump had previously agreed to grant Ukraine Patriot production licenses in July, but later revoked the promise. With ongoing Russian strikes on Kyiv and a week-long assault, the U.S. appears to be focusing on protecting its own defense needs before addressing Ukraine's crisis.

Rubio dismissed President Volodymyr Zelensky's request for the U.S. to supply 5% of its Patriot missiles, citing the need to prioritize American interests. He also dismissed claims of a missile stockpile shortage, attributing it to geopolitical pressure rather than the conflict with Iran. Rubio downplayed CIA Director Jon Ratcliffe's 72-hour trip to Moscow in late August, calling it "routine" and not part of any broader initiative.

When asked about taking a more active role in peace negotiations, Rubio said he would leave that to others, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.