Washington, Oct 31 (V7N)- The United States has approved the proposed sale of 500 Patriot interceptor missiles to Ukraine in a deal valued at approximately $2.1 billion, according to a Reuters report published on Saturday, October 31.
The US State Department said the proposed sale involves PAC-3 interceptor missiles designed to strengthen Ukraine's air defence capabilities. The cost is expected to be covered by Ukraine's European allies and Canada rather than solely by Kyiv.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has repeatedly urged Washington to accelerate the delivery of Patriot missiles, which are among the systems Ukraine relies on to intercept Russian ballistic missiles.
In a statement issued on Friday, the US State Department said the proposed sale would support American foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a partner considered a contributor to political and economic stability in Europe.
European Allies to Help Fund Purchase
According to the report, Ukraine will finance the purchase through a combination of international grants and other funding arrangements.
The funding sources reportedly include grants from Canada, Germany and Norway through the Jumpstart programme, as well as national funds supported by the European Union's Ukraine Support Loan.
The proposed sale would provide Ukraine with additional interceptor missiles as it continues efforts to protect its territory and critical infrastructure against Russian missile attacks.
The approval concerns the proposed sale; the timing of deliveries will depend on the subsequent arrangements.
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