The United States has granted approval for the sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine—a critical requirement for the country to defend itself against Russian air attacks.

It is reported that this deal, which involves advanced PAC-3 interceptor missiles, will cost 2.1 billion U.S. dollars.

The U.S. State Department has stated that the entire cost will be covered by pro-Ukrainian nations in Europe and Canada.

Meanwhile, emphasizing the necessity of Patriot systems to protect against Russia’s lethal ballistic missile attacks, President Zelenskyy once again requested the U.S. to expedite their delivery last night (the 30th).

This new missile deal comes in the wake of a recent controversy between the Ukrainian President and U.S. President Donald Trump. The easing of sanctions imposed by the United States on Russia—as part of an agreement involving the procurement of Russian diesel—has also become a point of contention between the leaders of the two nations.

It is also reported that Trump had previously stated that Ukraine requires new leadership to bring an end to the ongoing war with Russia.

In February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, having previously seized Crimea and parts of the eastern Donbas region.

However, it is noted that diplomatic tensions between the two countries have eased somewhat following discussions held by Zelenskyy with American representatives in Oslo on October 20th. (Based on Dinamina)