Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted that U.S. support remains indispensable for Ukraine’s defense, particularly regarding the supply of PAC-3 missiles for Patriot systems, which Europe is currently unable to provide. The head of state made this statement during a joint press conference with EU leaders in Copenhagen.
This is reported by Київ24
The Key Role of the U.S. in Ensuring Ukraine’s Defense Capability
Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine needs not only funding but also critically important types of weapons that are only available due to American support. The President noted that the supply of missiles for Patriot systems and the systems themselves were among the main topics of discussion. At the same time, he expressed hope for the development of domestic defense production under conditions of adequate financial support.
“There are certain items that Europe, unfortunately, does not have as of today. Especially when we talk about PAC-3. I mean the missiles for the Patriot systems. This is critically important. Also, when we talk about the systems themselves,” Zelensky stated.
Separately, the president noted the constructive relations with Denmark, which contribute to the implementation of important cooperation programs in the defense sector.
Suspension of Supplies and Reactions
The Ukrainian leader also mentioned that in the coming days he plans to hold talks with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding further support. The negotiations are expected to take place “possibly tomorrow or in the coming days.”
On July 1, it became known that the United States temporarily suspended the supply of certain types of ammunition, including missiles for Patriot systems. According to media reports, this decision is explained by concerns over the depletion of U.S. Army stockpiles. European officials were surprised by this move.
It has been reported that during the suspension, part of the ammunition, including over 20 PAC-3 Patriot missiles, more than 20 Stinger anti-aircraft systems, Hellfire guided missiles, and over 90 AIM missiles, was already on Polish territory.
The U.S. State Department assures that the supply of weapons to Ukraine has not been completely halted. State Department spokesperson Tami Bruce noted that this is a separate situation that pertains only to a specific aspect of aid. At the same time, Ukrainian officials claim that the U.S. has temporarily halted all military aid supplies, including ammunition and spare parts.
The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires John Hinkel for discussions on the military aid situation amid escalating aggression from Russia. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense reported that no official notifications regarding changes or revisions to supply schedules from the U.S. had been received, and requested additional consultations with American colleagues to clarify the details.
Meanwhile, the Kremlin stated that they believe the reduction of arms supplies to Ukraine will expedite the end of the war, which they refer to as a “special military operation.”