The American president Donald Trump has announced that he will send Patriot missiles to Ukraine. Last week, it was announced that after a brief delivery stop, the US would also be supplying artillery shells and missile systems. It is unknown how many missiles Ukraine will receive.
Patriot missiles, as seen in the photo above the article, can be used to shoot down aircraft, helicopters, drones, and missiles. According to Ukraine, the missiles are necessary for protection against Russian air attacks, which are becoming increasingly intense.
Trump announced the delivery to journalists at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, just outside Washington. “We will send them Patriots, which they desperately need,” the president said.
In June, the most civilian casualties in a month were caused by Russian attacks since the beginning of the war in 2022. According to the United Nations (UN), 232 civilians were killed and more than 1,300 were injured.
The US is not paying for the air defense missiles. Among others, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said last week that he was prepared to buy the missiles.
Delivery of weapons halted due to small stockpiles
The Pentagon halted deliveries of crucial weapons earlier this month due to concerns about American military stockpiles, which were said to be too small. The weapons included Patriot missiles, the precision-guided GMLRS, Hellfire missiles, and Howitzer shells. The decision came as a surprise to both Ukraine and the White House.
Meanwhile, deliveries of artillery shells and missile systems have resumed, news agencies Reuters and AP reported on Wednesday, based on American officials.