Zelensky: Ukraine received a new batch of Patriot missiles, but need more
Ukraine received an additional batch of interceptor missiles for Patriot systems, but its volume remains small given the needs of Ukrainian air defense before winter. President Volodymyr Zelensky did not disclose the number of missiles received, noting only that "a little" had arrived and Ukraine needs significantly more.
Zelensky announced this on August 25 during a joint press conference with Estonian President Alar Karis.
A journalist asked the president whether it had been possible in recent days to get closer to at least 100 Patriot missiles, given Ukraine's previously stated need for at least 300 such interceptors to get through the winter period.
Zelensky confirmed that a new delivery had taken place, but refused to name the volume.
"A little more Patriot missiles have come. How many, I cannot say, but a little. Need more. Need more", the president said.
Thus, the new batch only partially replenishes Ukrainian interceptor stocks. The need remains critical due to Russia's regular use of ballistic missiles, against which Patriot is one of the key means of Ukrainian air defense.
Hundreds of missiles needed before winter
Earlier, Zelensky stated that Ukraine needs at least about 300 Patriot interceptor missiles to get through the winter period.
The problem is especially acute due to the expectation of new Russian attacks on energy and other critical infrastructure in the autumn-winter period. At the same time, the president has repeatedly stressed that it is precisely the missile stockpile, not just the number of systems themselves, that is one of the main constraints for Ukrainian air defense.
Ukraine continues negotiations with the United States and European partners to increase supplies. Earlier, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said that European leaders intend to persuade U.S. President Donald Trump to grant Ukraine access to additional American Patriot missile stocks.
Ukraine also received Crotale and AIM missiles
In addition to Patriot interceptors, recent aid packages include other means of strengthening Ukrainian air defense.
According to Zelensky, one of the partner states transferred several Crotale air defense missile systems and missiles for them to Ukraine. The president did not reveal the country's name.
Ukraine also received AIM missiles, used to destroy Russian air targets.
The president also reported on other agreements reached during meetings with partners on August 23-25. In particular, Lithuania and Finland provided defense packages, Sweden allocates funding for the production of Ukrainian drones, and joint drone production is being agreed with Latvia, 90% of which are to go to Ukraine.
Separately, Zelensky confirmed receiving a positive decision from the United Kingdom and France on the technology and licenses needed for a project related to SCALP missiles. After political approval, technical teams are to work out a detailed implementation schedule.
