Zelenskyy warns Ukraine faces critical shortage of Patriot missiles

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has acknowledged that Ukraine is facing a severe shortage of missiles for its Patriot air defence systems, warning that the situation is “as bad as it gets.”

Zelenskyy made the remarks during an interview with German public broadcaster ZDF, where he addressed growing concerns over the availability of critical air defence ammunition.

The Ukrainian president said the shortage is unfolding amid intensified military activity in the Middle East, which he suggested is influencing global attention and weapons supply priorities. He also noted that the United States, in light of its conflict with Iran, is increasingly focused elsewhere, reducing attention on Ukraine.

Zelenskyy had previously warned that deliveries of missiles for US-made Patriot systems were being reduced due to the US and Israeli operation against Iran. He reiterated that the Patriot systems remain Ukraine’s most vital and urgent air defence capability.

According to him, there is currently no adequate replacement for the systems in Ukraine’s defence architecture, making continued supplies essential for maintaining air defence effectiveness.

By Vafa Guliyeva