Ukraine looking for anti-ballistic missiles to defend against Russia strikes, Washington envoy says

Ukraine urgently needs new anti-ballistic missiles to counter escalating Russian attacks, especially with winter approaching, according to Ukraine's envoy to Washington.

Olha Stefanishyna told reporters that Ukraine is in discussions with the Pentagon regarding a license to produce Patriot PAC-3 missiles, a process that could take between one and five years. Additionally, Ukraine is exploring a long-term purchase of PAC-3 missiles, potentially swapping production line positions with another buyer. Representatives from Patriot manufacturer Raytheon Co. have visited Ukraine, and Lockheed Martin Corp., which builds the PAC-3 interceptors, is preparing to send experts.

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The devastating effect of every overnight attack right now is unbelievable. Last night and the night before, it was 30 to 40 ballistic missiles.

Stefanishyna described the "devastating effect of every overnight attack right now" as "unbelievable," noting that "30 to 40 ballistic missiles" were launched "last night and the night before." While Ukraine has successfully defended against drones, it has not yet developed effective defenses against ballistic missiles, a capability Russia is rapidly expanding under President Vladimir Putin. "He has an intention to destroy Ukraine, and that's why, you know, we're looking for different capabilities. We have been successful in everything, but so far, for this winter, we need the missiles."

In parallel, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump to advocate for enhanced air defenses and to initiate a new diplomatic effort to end the five-year conflict. Potential visits by U.S. negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to Kyiv are also being considered. Zelensky has reiterated his offer to halt fighting at the current battle lines as a basis for talks, emphasizing the need for action before winter sets in. Stefanishyna also confirmed reports of her offer to resign as Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S. due to corruption allegations, stating she intends to return to Ukraine to defend herself, though President Zelensky has not requested her resignation.

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He has an intention to destroy Ukraine, and that's why, you know, we're looking for different capabilities. We have been successful in everything, but so far, for this winter, we need the missiles.