Zelensky explained why Ukraine began receiving fewer anti-ballistic missiles
Volodymyr Zelensky / © Office of the President of Ukraine
Since the beginning of 2026, the volume of anti-ballistic missiles received by Ukraine has decreased approximately threefold, posing a significant challenge to the nation’s defense.
This was stated by the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, during a National Security and Defense Council meeting.
According to Zelensky, the supply situation is primarily linked to combat operations and 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 prioritized. 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 Zelensky pointed out that, in addition to the situation in the Middle East, there might be other reasons for the reduction in aid.
“Understanding such a significant deficit, and I don’t know if there are other reasons besides the Middle East. Perhaps these political steps are intended to make Ukraine more, let’s say, ‘compliant.’ In my opinion, it’s not without that. We understand that this is a serious challenge,” the president remarked.
Amid a considerable deficit in 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 remind you that US President Donald Trump denied Kyiv additional interceptor missiles for Patriot systems, citing the need to preserve stockpiles for the protection of American facilities.
Consequently, Congress sharply criticized **this decision by the American leader.**
Despite this, Volodymyr Zelensky 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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