Ukraine gets US license to build Patriot missiles, Zelensky confirms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Friday that the United States has granted Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot interceptor missiles, a key capability for countering Russian ballistic threats. Zelensky stated that President Donald Trump gave explicit approval during their recent meeting, despite Trump previously expressing doubts after initially signaling support at a NATO summit in Ankara in late July. Ukraine faces a severe shortage of these interceptors, leaving it vulnerable to Russian attacks. Production will not be immediate, as Zelensky has met with manufacturer Raytheon to discuss details, but Ukraine will still require U.S. and allied missile supplies to withstand the coming winter.