US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine

The United States has approved the sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine, which are seen as critical for defending against Russia's ballistic missile attacks, BBC reported.

The advanced PAC-3 interceptor missiles will cost $2.1 billion and will be funded entirely by Kyiv's allies in Europe and Canada, according to the US State Department.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has urged the US to accelerate deliveries of these missiles, which are considered the only effective weapon against Russia's ballistic missiles.

The sale is intended to support US foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the security of Ukraine, described as a partner country promoting political and economic stability in Europe.

Funding for the purchase will come from donations by Canada, Germany, and Norway through the JUMPSTART program and national funds, financed by the European Union’s Ukraine Support Loan, the statement said.

Lockheed Martin, an American company, will be the principal contractor for the sale, and no US government funds are involved in the transaction.