Trump says he will license Ukraine to produce Patriot missiles

During a NATO summit in Ankara, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced his intention to grant Ukraine a license for manufacturing Patriot missile interceptors. Trump stated, "We will give a licence to you. We'll show them how to do it." This move comes as Ukraine faces a critical shortage of these air defense systems, with global supplies dwindling.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has been actively seeking additional Patriot missiles to defend against ongoing Russian strikes. The ability for Ukraine to produce the U.S.-made weapon domestically could alleviate some of the supply pressures. Trump suggested that the U.S. possesses significant leverage over the companies involved in Patriot production, implying that such a deal would be finalized.

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We will give a licence to you. We'll show them how to do it.

Lockheed Martin is identified as the primary contractor for the interceptor missiles used in the Patriot system. Zelensky's presence at the summit was marked by recent Ukrainian successes in striking Russian supply lines in Crimea, boosting morale. However, Russian forces continue to advance in the Donetsk region, underscoring the persistent need for advanced air defense capabilities. Trump's comments suggest a potential pathway to increase missile availability for Ukraine.

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We have great power over the companies, those companies that make the Patriot. We haven't informed the company of that yet, but that'll work out all right. I'm sure they will be thrilled.