This decision by the US State Department aims to promptly bolster Ukraine's maintenance capabilities for these missile systems amid the ongoing conflict.
The announcement highlighted Ukraine's pressing need for enhanced defense mechanisms to counter Russian missile attacks and aerial threats. "The urgent need to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian missile strikes and aerial capacities of the Russian forces is clear," the State Department conveyed, emphasizing the critical role of Hawk system maintenance in safeguarding Ukrainian citizens and vital infrastructure.
This move aligns with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent appeals for increased air defense aid from international partners, including requests for Patriot systems. The urgency to strengthen Ukraine's air defense was a focal point in discussions by Dmytro Kuleba, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, at the NATO ministerial meeting in Brussels.
NATO Secretary-General affirmed that allies are exploring options to supply Ukraine with additional air defense solutions. Following Ukraine's plea for more Patriot systems, the American Secretary of State took swift actions to address the request, showcasing a continued commitment to Ukraine's defense needs.
