Zelensky says US missile sale strong but warns deliveries may take years

The Guardian reported that the United States has approved a $2.1 billion sale of 500 Patriot PAC‑3 missiles to Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the decision strong, but cautioned that delivery of the missiles could take years. He said stockpiles are needed now to counter Russian ballistic missile attacks.

The U.S. State Department said in a Friday statement that the proposed sale will improve Ukraine’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its integrated air and missile defense capabilities. Zelensky’s warning highlights a timing gap between the announced purchase and when the weapons will be operational on the ground.

The agreement is intended to bolster Ukraine’s air and missile defence, but the expected delay raises concerns about the country’s ability to defend against ongoing Russian strikes.

Why it matters

The missile purchase could enhance Ukraine’s defence against Russian attacks, yet delivery delays may leave it vulnerable in the interim.

Key details

Location

Ukraine · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

31 Oct 2026, 07:48 IST

Key names

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy, Patriot PAC-, Patriot, Ukrainian

Section

World

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianUkraine’s Zelenskyy praises US over $2.1bn Patriot missile deal but warns it could take years 31 Oct, 07:48

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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