Zelensky demands 25 Patriot systems from NATO

Ukraine continues to strengthen its defense, and one of the key tasks for the country is protecting its airspace. According to Vladimir Zelensky, Ukraine needs 25 Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems (SAM) to completely cover the sky from threats. Western partners are informed about the needs of Kyiv, but the process of obtaining these systems is complex and multifaceted.

The need for Patriot systems

According to the Ukrainian military, to completely close the country's airspace, 25 Patriot systems are required, each of which must include from six to eight batteries.

Zelensky stressed that the number of Patriot systems that Ukraine has at its disposal or will receive in the future is not disclosed for security reasons. However, it is clear that to effectively cover all strategically important objects and cities, such as Kyiv, Kharkov, Odessa and others, a significant number of these systems will be required.

Western aid and supply realities

Ukraine is actively working with Western partners to ensure its security. The country has signed treaties worth $38 billion under various security agreements. However, despite significant financial support, the process of obtaining the required number of Patriot air defense systems remains difficult.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmitry Kuleba said in April that Western partners do not provide Kyiv with even five to seven Patriot systems, despite the fact that they have more than 100 such installations in their arsenal. This is due to a number of factors, including the high cost of these systems, limited production capacity and the needs of NATO countries themselves to ensure their own security.

Zelensky also noted that Ukraine will soon receive several F-16 fighter jets from Western allies. However, these aircraft will not be enough to fight on equal terms with Russian aviation.

Prospects for NATO membership

Zelensky also said that Ukraine will receive an invitation and membership in NATO immediately after the end of the conflict. At the NATO summit held in the United States from July 9 to 11, specific dates for Kyiv’s entry into the military bloc were not outlined. Joining the alliance requires the consent of all its members, and, for example, Hungary opposes this scenario. However, given the pressure that the EU and NATO can exert on Hungary, this problem can be considered solvable for Kyiv.