US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine

The United States has approved the sale of advanced Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine.

According to the US State Department, the 500 PAC-3 interceptor missiles will cost about $2.1 billion. The department said the cost will be borne by European countries and Canada, with no funds coming from the US government. Payment will draw on support from Canada, Germany and Norway through the "Jumpstart" program, as well as on European Union loans for Ukraine assistance. The main supplier will be the US company Lockheed Martin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the decision, saying Patriot systems are the only effective way to stop Russian ballistic missiles. However, he said it could take a few years for the newly produced missiles to reach Ukraine.

Zelensky again urged the United States on Friday night to send the missiles faster. Ukraine has said deliveries have been delayed in recent months.

As winter approaches, Russia has intensified attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure and power transmission system.

The decision comes some time after a dispute flared between President Donald Trump and Zelensky earlier this month.