US still weighing Patriot missile license for Ukraine

The United States has not yet made a final decision on granting Ukraine a license to produce Patriot missile systems on its territory, according to the State Department. State Department representative Ian Bateson told DW that the issue is still under discussion, despite President Donald Trump's second statement expressing readiness to provide such a license. Bateson noted that Trump has spoken positively about the Ukrainian army and his meeting with President Zelensky, but said the specifics remain unclear as diplomatic negotiations are ongoing. He cautioned against viewing the lack of details as a negative sign. Earlier, Defense Express analysts reported that Ukraine is negotiating with American company Raytheon to establish licensed production of Patriot interceptor missiles. Raytheon produces PAC-2 GEM-T missiles, while the more advanced PAC-3 series is made by Lockheed Martin.