Key facts
- Ukraine urgently needs anti-ballistic missiles to defend against Russian attacks, according to its envoy to Washington.
- Discussions are ongoing with the Pentagon for a license to produce Patriot PAC-3 missiles, a process that could take years.
- Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss air defense needs and diplomatic efforts.
- Envoy Olha Stefanishyna confirmed reports of her offer to resign to defend herself against corruption allegations.
Ukraine's envoy to Washington, Olha Stefanishyna, emphasized the critical need for anti-ballistic missiles to counter escalating Russian attacks, particularly ahead of winter. Speaking on Thursday, she revealed ongoing discussions with the Pentagon for a license to produce Patriot PAC-3 missiles, a process that could take between 12 months and five years. Alternative long-term purchase agreements and production line swaps are also being explored.
Stefanishyna described the "devastating effect" of recent overnight attacks, noting that Ukraine has struggled to defend against ballistic missiles, unlike drones. She stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is rapidly increasing production of these missiles with the apparent intention of destroying Ukraine. "For this winter, we need the missiles," she asserted.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy recently met with U.S. President Donald Trump to advocate for enhanced air defenses and to advance diplomatic efforts to end the conflict. Stefanishyna indicated that U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner might visit Kyiv soon to further these diplomatic discussions.
Zelenskiy has reiterated his proposal to halt hostilities along current battle lines as a foundation for peace talks. Stefanishyna stressed the urgency of taking action before the approaching winter.
In separate news, Stefanishyna confirmed reports of her offer to resign from her post as Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S. to return to Ukraine and address corruption allegations related to personal property declarations. She stated that President Zelenskiy had not requested her resignation but felt it necessary for her and her family to personally defend her case.