Trump promised, but Putin is not waiting: the dilemma complicating Ukraine

The US approved a massive deal to supply 500 PAC-3 interceptor missiles to Ukraine worth $2.1 billion, funded by Canada, Germany, and Norway. Zelensky expresses frustration: delivery could be delayed until 2029, while Putin prepares for winter attacks on energy infrastructure.

The US State Department approved a massive deal to supply up to 500 PAC-3 interceptor missiles for Ukraine's Patriot air defense system, at a total cost of about $2.1 billion. Funding will be provided by Canada, Germany, and Norway. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the decision "a powerful step," but expressed frustration over the timeline: while Ukraine urgently needs the missiles this winter, actual delivery could be delayed for years. According to a report in the Daily Telegraph, the delay stems from the fact that this is a purchase of new equipment from the production line, not a draw from emergency stockpiles. Catherine Thompson, a former senior Pentagon official, estimated that delivery is likely to be delayed until at least 2029. The approval comes amid growing political tensions, and Kyiv has resumed drone attacks on Russian oil refineries after a temporary pause.