Zelenskyy explained why Ukraine started receiving fewer anti-ballistic missiles
Volodymyr Zelenskyy / © Office of the President of Ukraine
Since the beginning of 2026, Ukraine’s intake of anti-ballistic missiles has decreased by approximately three times, presenting a significant challenge to the nation’s defense.
This was stated by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during a National Security and Defense Council meeting.
According to Zelenskyy, the supply situation is primarily linked to the ongoing military conflicts in the Middle East.
“At least, this is the official reason we received from our partners, primarily from the United States of America and European partners – their involvement in the Middle East has been minimized. Nevertheless, in previous years, they provided Ukraine with anti-ballistic missiles, primarily for our Patriot and other air defense systems,” the president noted.
At the same time, Volodymyr Zelenskyy pointed out that, in addition to the situation in the Middle East, there might be other reasons for the reduction in aid.
“Given such a significant deficit, and I don’t know if there are reasons other than the Middle East. Perhaps these political steps are intended to make Ukraine more, let’s say, ‘amenable.’ In my opinion, it’s not without this. We understand that this is a serious challenge,” the president remarked.
Against the backdrop of a considerable shortage of air defense assets, Ukraine is focusing on developing its own systems. In the president’s view, the chosen direction for developing domestic air defense is appropriate for both current conditions and the country’s future security after the war concludes.
Patriot Missile Production in Ukraine – Latest News
We recall that US President Donald Trump denied Kyiv additional interceptor missiles for Patriot systems, citing the need to preserve stocks for the defense of American facilities.
Consequently, the Congress sharply criticized this decision by the American leader.
Despite this, Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously stated that Ukraine is actively working with partners from the US and Europe on supplying new support packages for air defense and is also preparing to expand the production and localization of Western weaponry.
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