Trump announces U.S. license for Ukraine to produce Patriot air defense systems

President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that the United States will grant Ukraine a license to produce Patriot air‑defense systems, a move aimed at strengthening Kyiv’s ability to counter ongoing Russian missile attacks. The decision follows growing concerns about the adequacy of Ukraine’s defensive capabilities as the conflict enters its fifth year.

The license allows Ukrainian manufacturers to assemble Patriot batteries under U.S. oversight, providing a domestic source of advanced air‑defense technology that has been in high demand amid intensified Russian strikes. The announcement was made by Trump in a statement released through the White House, with the U.S. government emphasizing its continued support for Ukraine’s military resilience.

The move is seen as a significant boost for Kyiv, which has struggled to secure enough air‑defense assets to protect critical infrastructure and population centers. By enabling local production, the U.S. aims to reduce reliance on external suppliers and accelerate deployment of the Patriot system in the region, according to reports by France 24’s Emerald Maxwell.