Zelenskyy: 20 Patriot Systems and Missile Production License Could Replace U.S. Troops in Ukraine

Ukraine could defend itself with 20 Patriot air defense systems and a U.S. license to produce missiles for them in exchange for security guarantees and the presence of American troops, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said during a press conference in Kyiv on February 19.

When asked about security guarantees, Zelenskyy stressed the urgent need for more Patriot systems and missile production rights, citing a recent critical shortage during a Russian air attack.

“When at 3, 4, or 5 in the morning, my commander calls me and says, 'We are near this city, and we have run out of missiles for the Patriot system, '” Zelenskyy recounted. “And he tells me there are eight incoming [Russian] missiles, but we have nothing left for air defense.”

Given U.S. reluctance to send troops or support Ukraine’s NATO membership, Zelenskyy said he had asked Washington whether it could at least provide Ukraine with 20 Patriot systems.

“Can we get these 20 air defense systems? That would be enough. We don’t even need maintenance [U.S. crews]—we’ll train our own people. But we need a license to produce Patriot missiles,” he emphasized.

Earlier, Zelenskyy stated that the United States is now seeking to appease Russian leader Vladimir Putin in pursuit of a quick resolution, but a ceasefire is not a victory.