U.S. to Send Patriot System, Signs Minerals Deal

The United States will send a refurbished Patriot air-defense system, previously stationed in Israel, to Ukraine by this summer to strengthen defenses amid escalating Russian missile and drone attacks. Western allies are also considering providing an additional system from Germany or Greece, which could increase Ukraine's total to 10 Patriot systems, though only six are currently operational. The decision follows intensified Russian strikes and persistent appeals from President Volodymyr Zelensky for more advanced air defenses. This move coincides with a recent U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement that grants the U.S. preferential access to Ukrainian minerals and counts military aid toward the joint fund. Former President Trump initially rejected Ukraine’s requests for more Patriot systems and blamed Zelensky for the conflict, but has since shifted to stronger criticism of Russia following recent deadly attacks. Patriot systems are seen as essential for helping Ukraine counter large-scale Russian aerial assaults.