Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renews calls for more Patriot air-defence support after a large Russian overnight attack on Kyiv that involved missiles and drones. Across reporting, Zelensky says Ukraine intercepts many incoming targets but still faces gaps, particularly against ballistic missiles, and that civilian casualties result from those limitations. He urges European partners to speed delivery of Patriot interceptor missiles, highlighting concerns about shortages and stockpiles. Zelensky also presses for licensed production in Ukraine to reduce dependence on external suppliers and sustain defence over time. Several outlets report he asks the United States for permission to manufacture Patriot PAC-3 interceptors domestically, and he points to a forthcoming Patriot package while stressing that it will not be enough on its own. France 24 adds that technical details must still be agreed with the US before production can start. Reporting also links the push to diplomacy at NATO-related meetings, with Zelensky asking allies for additional systems and advocating for a broader European approach to missile-shield capabilities.
Zelensky urges more Patriot interceptors and seeks licensed production after major Russian strike
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky renews calls for more Patriot air-defence support after a large Russian overnight attack on Kyiv that involved missiles and drones. Across reporting, Zelensky sa...
- Zelensky calls for additional Patriot interceptor missiles for Ukraine after a major Russian attack on Kyiv.
- Ukrainian officials say Patriot coverage and interceptor stockpiles are insufficient to stop all incoming ballistic missiles.
- Zelensky urges European states to deliver Patriot systems faster and highlights vulnerabilities in reliance on US production.
- Ukraine seeks permission for licensed Patriot missile production in Ukraine to secure a steadier interceptor supply.
- Zelensky says technical details with the United States still need to be finalized before domestic production can begin.
Kyiv is currently under intensified drone and missile assaults from Russia, placing significant pressure on Ukraine's air defence systems. President Zelenskyy is calling on allies to expedite the delivery of weapons, highlighting a critical need for Patriot systems. Europe’s dependence on US Patriot interceptors for missile defence has revealed vulnerabilities in production and stockpiles. Strengthening domestic capabilities is vital for securing Europe's defence in the future.
1 month agoUkraine urgently needs PAC-3 Patriot interceptors, the only system in its arsenal capable of stopping Russian Iskander-M ballistic missiles, which carry half-ton warheads. By early July 2026, Ukraine’s PAC-3 stocks were reportedly exhausted, allowing Russia to launch major strikes involving 23-24 ballistic missiles and Zircon missiles with no intercepts. US policy shifts and production limits — Lockheed Martin makes only around 500-600 PAC-3 missiles per year — have worsened the shortage, contributing to a record civilian toll in June. While US President Donald Trump has signaled that Ukraine may be allowed to produce Patriot interceptors under license, the timeline remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Fire Point is developing a cheaper domestic interceptor, Freya, with the first test missiles expected by the end of 2026. A small resupply of fewer than 20 PAC-3 interceptors is reportedly expected from allies, including Poland.
1 month agoUkraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday said that technical details still needed to be finalised with the US before Kyiv could start manufacturing its own Patriot air-defence missiles. Ukraine's dwindling interceptor stockpiles have been outstripped by Russia's deadly ballistic missile attacks.
1 month agoZelensky said Ukraine will soon receive a new Patriot PAC-3 interceptor package but still lacks enough missiles to counter Russian attacks. He said Kyiv is relying on allies to supply additional interceptors while pursuing licensed production and its planned Freya air defense system.
1 month agoPresident Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is urging European states to sell him Patriot missiles to defend against Russian attacks and has asked President Trump to let Ukraine make the Patriot systems.
1 month agoPutin exploiting acute shortage of Patriot missiles and using this to increase attacks on Ukraine, says Kyiv
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