The US Department of Defense is discussing the possibility of redirecting Patriot missile systems, which were intended for Ukraine, to the Middle East. While a final decision has not been made, such an idea is already under consideration, writes The Washington Post, citing three informed sources.
Patriot system. Illustrative image. Photo: Czarek Sokołowski / AP
These missiles were supposed to be supplied under a NATO program, where European countries finance the purchase of American weapons for Ukraine. However, the US may now use part of these funds for its own needs.
The reason is the high consumption of ammunition in the conflict in the Middle East. In a short period, American forces and their allies have used thousands of missiles to destroy Iranian drones and missiles, so supplies are beginning to dwindle.
It is reported that supplies to Ukraine may continue, but future batches might contain fewer air defense assets. Washington is currently discussing the volume of continued support for Kyiv.
Additionally, the Pentagon has already informed Congress of its intention to redirect about $750 million, provided by allies under this program, to replenish its own stockpiles, rather than for aid to Ukraine.
This raises concerns in both Kyiv and European countries, as it poses the question of whether the US will have enough resources to simultaneously support Ukraine and conduct military operations in other regions. At the same time, NATO emphasizes that arms supplies to Ukraine are continuing, and funding for the support program already amounts to several billion dollars.
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