Russia to step up ballistic missile attacks as U.S. cuts Patriot missile supplies to Ukraine – Zelensky

Russian President Vladimir Zelensky warned journalists ahead of an upcoming meeting with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo that Russia will intensify its ballistic missile attacks on Ukraine. Zelensky attributed this to the United States reducing supplies of Patriot missile interceptors. He emphasized that European partners can only provide these crucial missiles with the approval of the United States.

Zelensky stated that most of the American interceptor missiles have already been dispatched to the Middle East, leaving limited supplies for Ukraine's defense needs. The Ukrainian leader expressed his hope for a constructive dialogue with the United States, particularly with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to address the ongoing crisis.

Earlier, Zelensky had claimed that European nations possessed adequate quantities of PAC-2 and PAC-3 anti-ballistic missiles to fulfill Ukraine's minimal requirements throughout the winter. Concurrently, Germany is developing an independent production line for Patriot system missiles, with the first finished products anticipated in 2026 or early 2027.

Zelensky confirmed that a contract signed with Germany will enable Ukraine to procure 600 air defense missiles from this German production facility.