Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that Ukraine possesses the technical capabilities to manufacture missiles compatible with the Patriot missile defense system, pending a license from the United States. This statement was made during a televised marathon broadcast.
Zelensky highlighted that the Trump administration has acknowledged this issue and expressed willingness to address it. He noted that the U.S. currently produces approximately 700 Patriot missiles annually and has previously granted licenses to Germany, which has begun its own production.
Furthermore, Zelensky revealed that Ukraine has signed a contract with Germany for the procurement of 600 Patriot missiles, describing it as a substantial agreement. However, he cautioned that the delivery process would be lengthy.
The Ukrainian president emphasized that Ukraine, similar to Germany, is equipped to produce its own Patriot missiles. He stated, “We have reached a point where we only need personal approval from Trump. All other parties are in agreement,” referring to the leadership of European and American manufacturing companies.
It is noteworthy that during the recent G7 summit, Trump responded positively to Zelensky’s request regarding the Patriot missiles. Zelensky remarked that, for the first time, the American side is viewing the licenses for missile production favorably. In contrast, during the Biden administration, Kyiv had raised this issue multiple times without receiving any response.
Ukraine is poised to manufacture Patriot missiles if it secures a license from the U.S., as President Zelensky reveals agreements with Germany and highlights technical capabilities. The situation reflects ongoing negotiations and the complexities of international defense collaborations.