Ukraine receives 12 Patriot missiles per month from US, Zelensky says

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on October 27 that Ukraine receives an average of 12 Patriot interceptor missiles per month from the United States throughout 2026. Zelensky explained that Ukraine requires approximately 150 Russian ballistic missiles intercepted per month, but currently receives about 150 Patriots annually from the U.S. Some European nations have pledged additional missiles, yet transfers necessitate approval from Washington.

Zelensky emphasized the importance of obtaining President Pete Hegseth's signature to expedite the supply of interceptor missiles, as the process currently lacks final approval. He stated that delays and disruptions to Ukraine's air defense systems, such as Patriot and NASAMS, constitute a form of political pressure from Washington that could endanger civilians.

Zelensky also detailed that Ukraine secures Patriot interceptors through various channels, including NATO's Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL). The shortage of interceptor missiles affects NASAMS air defense systems as well. Zelensky detailed his request for a special package of interceptor missiles from U.S. President Donald Trump during a September 22 meeting in New York, noting that Trump pledged efforts to secure the missiles but acknowledged their dual purpose for U.S. defense.

Zelensky emphasized the continuous necessity of procuring new packages, missiles, and air defenses to safeguard Ukrainian citizens from Russian ballistic missile attacks. He reported that Russia has launched over 100 ballistic missiles against Kyiv and the surrounding region since October 14. Furthermore, Zelensky highlighted that the war in the Middle East has diminished military and financial support for Ukraine, complicating their ability to secure essential air defense supplies to counter Russian ballistic missile threats.