MIM-104 Patriot

Zelenskyy discussed the situation at the front and new aid packages for Ukraine with the military leadership.

Today, on July 3, servicemen of the anti-aircraft missile troops of the Air Force of Ukraine celebrate their professional holiday. In the first hours of the war, the units of anti-aircraft missile troops skillfully shot down enemy targets and prevented the aggressor from establishing control over the Ukrainian sky.

Ukraine's Defense Minister Umerov, Presidential Chief of Staff Yermak, and Deputy Prime Minister Stefanishyna met with U. S. Secretary of Defense Austin to discuss security cooperation, express gratitude for the $2.3 billion aid package, including air defense systems, and brief him on the situation at the front and military needs.

Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Andriy Yermak met with U. S. Secretary of State Anthony Blinken during his visit to the United States to discuss preparations for the NATO Summit, Ukraine's progress on the path to Euro-Atlantic integration, and the need for additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian cities.

President Zelenskyy receives a report from the head of Ukraine's Foreign Intelligence Service that indicates good prospects, although details are not disclosed.

President Zelenskyy instructed the Minister of Defense of Ukraine to find out when additional Patriot air defense systems agreed with partners will be delivered.

According to President Zelenskyy, Ukrainian drones can fly over 1,300 kilometers, but they are less powerful than missiles and cannot replace them.

Far-reaching solutions need to be found against Russian airfields from which military aircraft launch attacks on Ukraine, President Zelensky said in an interview.

During the forum in Dubrovnik, Kuleba discussed with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia the preparation of a bilateral security agreement.

The US Army has signed a $4. 5 billion contract with Lockheed Martin to supply 870 PAC-3 MSE missiles and related equipment for Patriot air defense systems.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that everyone is working to make the upcoming NATO anniversary summit a success. Ukraine is considering participating in several platforms, including the Patriot Air Defense Coalition. Ukraine also seeks a strong document with security guarantees on its way to membership in the Alliance.

There is a shortage of missiles for Western air defense systems in Ukraine, as the country does not produce these missiles and is completely dependent on partner support, which requires more support from Western allies to protect critical infrastructure and deter Russian aviation.

Ukraine is negotiating with Israel and the United States to transfer at least eight Israeli Patriot air defense systems to Kyiv, which could strengthen Ukraine's air defense against Russian attacks.

Spain has provided Ukraine with tanks, artillery shells, anti-drone systems and other weapons as part of a new military aid package.

Dutch Defense Minister Casa Ollongren said that the Netherlands and another unnamed country will jointly supply Ukraine with the Patriot air defense system.

Romania has decided to transfer the Patriot air defense system to Ukraine, strengthening Ukraine's defense capability and increasing the security of neighboring countries such as Moldova, the Baltic states and Romania itself from Russian aggression.

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden and the United States for giving Ukraine priority in the supply of air defense.

The United States will give priority to the supply of a package for Patriot and NASAMS air defense systems to Ukraine in comparison with other countries, the White House said.

President Zelensky instructed the government to develop conditions that simplify the installation of solar panels and batteries for the population, including tax incentives and credit programs, as part of the strategy for the development of renewable energy and energy security in Ukraine.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba called on partners to follow the example of Romania, which handed over the Patriot system to Ukraine in order to defeat Russian terror together.

Romania will transfer its Patriot air defense system to Ukraine in accordance with the decision of the National Defense Council of the country.

Five countries, including the United States, will provide Ukraine with Patriot air defense systems to protect its cities, as discussed by Presidents Zelenskiy and Biden.

Estonia will provide Ukraine with short-range Mistral anti-aircraft missile systems and missiles to repel Russian attacks.

At the moment, Russia's biggest strategic advantage over Ukraine is the advantage in the sky: hundreds of guided airstrikes are carried out daily, and Ukraine's only response is air defense systems.

Germany will supply Ukraine with a third Patriot air defense system, IRIS-T installations, Cheetahs, missiles and ammunition over the next few weeks and months.

Shmygal discussed joint defense production and technology exchange with Dutch Defense Minister Kassa Ollongren. As well as the global peace summit in Switzerland.

Zelensky announced agreements with partners on additional air defense systems for Ukraine, while some solutions will work quickly, and others - closer to autumn.

According to the Ministry of Defense, the range of vehicle categories is quite extensive and includes armored vehicles, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and special vehicles. The APU fleet now has equipment manufactured in more than 20 countries, including the United States, Germany, Sweden, Great Britain, Italy and others.

Germany is considering transferring another Patriot anti-aircraft missile battery to Ukraine in addition to the three it has already provided or promised to strengthen Ukraine's air defense amid increased Russian missile strikes.

At the July NATO summit, Ukraine expects clear decisions on membership in the Alliance and strengthening its air defense system thanks to the new Patriot air defense systems.