Zelenskyy: US Redirected 20,000 Anti-Drone Missiles Meant for Ukraine to the Middle East

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed that the United States redirected 20,000 anti-drone missiles—originally allocated for Ukraine—to the Middle East. The systems were intended to counter Shahed-type drones used by Russia.

In an interview with ABC News, Zelenskyy stated that the missiles were part of a previously agreed project developed during the Biden administration in coordination with then-Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

“We were counting on that project—20,000 missiles specifically designed to intercept Shaheds. It wasn’t expensive, but it involved specialized technology,” Zelenskyy said.

“This morning, my Defense Minister informed me that the United States has sent those missiles to the Middle East.”

The Ukrainian president emphasized that Ukraine continues to face significant challenges from Russia’s use of Iranian-made drones and is working to secure all necessary tools to neutralize the threat.

He also confirmed that the country remains in urgent need of missiles for Patriot air defense systems and warned that halting US military support would lead to significantly higher losses for Ukraine.

“Without US support, there will be more casualties. Many more,” he noted.

Despite the setback, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to strengthening its counter-drone capabilities and underlined the need for continued pressure on Russia from both the US and European allies.

Earlier, on June 6, Russia launched its largest air assault of the war, firing 452 aerial weapons—including nearly 400 Shahed drones—across every region of Ukraine. Despite Ukrainian defenses intercepting over 400 targets, strikes hit 13 locations, killing four civilians and injuring around 30.

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