WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the United States will provide Ukraine with Patriot air defense systems to assist in its defense against a potential Russian invasion.
Trump did not specify how many Patriot systems the U.S. plans to send or when the delivery will occur. The announcement comes amid worsening relations between the U.S. and Russia, particularly over the conflict in Ukraine.
The Patriot system, designed to detect and destroy incoming missiles and aircraft, aims to enhance Ukraine’s ability to defend its airspace. U.S. officials are coordinating with Ukrainian authorities to determine the specific needs for the defense systems and may also assist in training Ukrainian forces on their use.
Pentagon officials have not yet released detailed plans or logistics for deploying the Patriot systems.