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Zelensky Warns Prolonged Mideast War Could Squeeze Air-Defense Missiles for Ukraine

Ukraine now relies on European purchases under the PURL mechanism after direct U.S. aid largely stopped.

Overview

  • Zelensky said expected aid tranches and shipments have not declined so far, though he cautioned that a long regional conflict could affect supplies.
  • Kyiv’s concern centers on Patriot PAC-3 interceptors and other missiles that are also needed for U.S. deployments to the Middle East, including Patriot and THAAD batteries.
  • Ukraine’s air-defense units have already faced intermittent missile shortages, with some systems reported empty at times in early February, according to the Air Force.
  • Zelensky reported discussing military assistance with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and said he is engaging other capitals to sustain deliveries.
  • He argued Russia is unlikely to provide large-scale support to Iran because its combat-capable forces are tied down in Ukraine.