Zelensky: Russia to Step Up Ballistic Strikes Amid Patriot Shortage

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia may intensify ballistic missile strikes as interceptor missiles for the American Patriot air defense systems run short, Suspilne reported.

Zelensky spoke at a joint press conference with Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo. “They (the Russians — ed.) will intensify attacks, they understand that the Americans have weakened Patriot missile deliveries. They will intensify (strikes) with ballistic missiles,” he said.

Background

On October 16, Zelensky said Ukraine continues to face a shortage of interceptor missiles for Patriot systems. At the same time, he said, European partners have enough PAC-2 and PAC-3 missiles to let Ukraine defend its skies against Russian attacks and get through the winter.

On October 18, Zelensky accused U.S. President Donald Trump of trying to pressure Ukraine into capitulating to Russia and of delaying deliveries of Patriot interceptor missiles. Earlier he discussed ballistic interceptors with Secretary of State Marco Rubio (our report).