Key facts
- President Zelensky stated Ukraine could destroy all Russian ballistic missiles if the U.S. sold 10% of its Patriot missile stockpile.
- Zelensky requested the U.S. sell 5% of its Patriot interceptor missile stockpile.
- Ukraine has acquired only 1% of the needed U.S. interceptor missiles.
- In July, Ukraine intercepted 29 out of 195 Russian ballistic missiles launched.
- The U.S. also faces a shortage of missiles.
- Ukraine is developing its own ballistic and anti-ballistic missile systems.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that if the United States were to sell 10% of its Patriot interceptor missile stockpile, Ukraine would be able to destroy all Russian ballistic missiles. Zelensky made this appeal in an interview with CNN, noting that he is currently asking for 5% of the U.S. stockpile.
Zelensky highlighted that acquiring 5% of the missiles would help Ukraine survive the winter and save lives, while 10% would enable the destruction of all Russian ballistic missiles. This plea comes amid a critical shortage of air defense supplies for Ukraine, with July marking the deadliest month for civilians since the full-scale invasion began in 2022, according to the UN. Ukraine has only acquired 1% of the necessary U.S. interceptor missiles.
The Ukrainian government has formally requested an increase in air defense missile sales from the White House, as Russian strikes continue to target civilian and energy infrastructure. However, the U.S. itself is experiencing a shortage of missiles, partly due to the conflict in Iran, with President Donald Trump acknowledging the nation's own missile needs.
While discussions are underway regarding the co-production of Patriot interceptor missiles, U.S. Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker indicated that such an agreement is unlikely to be finalized before winter. Meanwhile, Zelensky noted that Russia's ballistic missile stockpiles remain substantial, with intelligence suggesting Russia's monthly production of key missiles is exceeding targets. In response to these challenges, Ukraine is actively developing its own ballistic and anti-ballistic missile systems, which are expected to be combat-ready by the fall. Zelensky also described engaging in daily negotiations with international allies to secure additional missile supplies.