Zelensky urges Europe to supply 100-plus Patriot interceptors before the winter
President Volodymyr Zelensky said Ukraine needs 100-120 Patriot interceptor missiles each month to counter Russia’s growing missile output during the coming cold season.
Speaking at the Canadian military facility in North Bay, President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that Russia’s current output of roughly 140 ballistic missiles each month far exceeds Ukraine’s defensive capacity. NATO standards call for twice as many interceptors, meaning 280 Patriot missiles would be needed to match the threat. Zelensky admitted that securing even 100-120 interceptors monthly is a "huge challenge" as winter approaches.
He suggested that missiles could arrive from U.S. stockpiles, ongoing European assistance, or through talks with Middle-Eastern partners. The president also urged European nations to back Ukraine fully and referenced the pan-European FREYJA anti-ballistic missile project, aiming for a test launch by the end of December followed by production. Additionally, he and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed on expanded aid, new packages, joint initiatives, and cooperation agreements.
Why it matters
Ukraine's ability to defend against Russia's missile barrage this winter hinges on securing sufficient Patriot interceptors.
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