US approves $2.1bn Patriot missile sale to Ukraine
· Security · Ukraine · United States
The Trump administration approved a $2.1 billion sale of Patriot missiles to Ukraine, after President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused the US of delaying shipments of the crucial air defence interceptors. Reports said the package covers 500 missiles. The American-made interceptors are the only effective weapon for downing Russia's ballistic missiles, and Ukraine had been waiting almost a month for Washington to sign off on the supplies. Zelenskyy said separately he would head to Turkey for important talks as diplomatic efforts continue after more than four and a half years of war.
Why it matters：The interceptors are Ukraine's main defence against ballistic strikes on cities and power grids, so the timing directly affects civilian protection this winter.
Key points
- Sale valued at $2.1bn, with reports of 500 interceptors
- Ukraine had waited almost a month for approval
- Zelenskyy also plans talks in Turkey