Another Patriot System on Its Way to Ukraine

Air Defense Moves from the Middle East to Eastern Europe

A U.S.-made Patriot air-defense system, previously stationed in Israel, is set to be transferred to Ukraine.

The system will first undergo refurbishment but is expected to be delivered by summer. Four current and former U.S. officials confirmed the information, which has not yet been publicly reported.

It remains unclear when the decision to transfer the system was made—or under which presidential administration.

Due to the sensitivity of the matter, the officials requested anonymity. But one thing is certain: Ukraine’s need for enhanced protection against Russian missile strikes is becoming increasingly urgent.

Support from Germany or Greece Under Discussion

In parallel with the delivery from Israel, the U.S. and its allies are in talks about the possibility of Germany or Greece providing an additional Patriot system to Ukraine.

If successful, Ukraine would have a total of ten Patriot systems. Currently, eight are deployed in the country, though two are undergoing repairs.

The U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed that it continues to supply Ukraine with equipment from previously authorized aid packages.

Patriot systems, however, are among the most in-demand—and scarce—defensive assets globally. According to data from the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, there are approximately 186 operational Patriot systems worldwide, with the United States owning about one-third.

Russian Attacks Intensify

The renewed push to deliver more Patriot systems follows a sharp increase in Russian attacks. On April 24, a ballistic missile strike on Kyiv killed 13 people and injured nearly 90 others.

The following night, Russia launched almost 70 missiles and more than 150 attack drones across multiple Ukrainian cities. Ukraine’s Minister of Internal Affairs, Ihor Klymenko, acknowledged that the country did not have enough air defense to intercept such a large-scale assault.

In a rare public rebuke, Donald Trump posted on social media: “Vladimir, STOP!” He later added, “It makes me think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war—he’s just stringing me along.”

Zelensky: “This Is Not About Charity”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has consistently urged for more Patriot systems. In his April 25 nightly address, he stated: “We are ready to purchase the necessary number of Patriot systems for our country. This is not about charity.”

Shortly after, Zelensky and Trump met on the sidelines of Pope Francis’ funeral in Rome.

The encounter marked a reset in their relationship following a tense Oval Office meeting earlier in the year. While Trump had previously dismissed Zelensky’s requests, his recent tone has softened, signaling a possible opening for additional support.

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