Ukraine Offers $15 Billion for Patriot Missiles to Defend Against Russia, Says Zelenskyy

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has made a bold and urgent plea to the United States, stating that Ukraine is ready to spend $15 billion to acquire 10 Patriot missile defense systems. These systems are crucial for protecting Ukrainian cities and infrastructure from ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks.

Speaking in an interview with the U.S. television program "60 Minutes," Zelenskyy expressed frustration that, despite commitments made during the recent NATO summit in Washington, Kyiv still hasn’t received the additional Patriot systems it was expecting. Highlighting Ukraine’s dire need for enhanced air defenses, Zelenskyy said, “We are ready to pay these $15 billion. We will find this money and cover all the costs.”

The Patriot air defense system, developed by Raytheon, is considered one of the most advanced surface-to-air missile systems in the world. It can intercept both cruise and ballistic missiles as well as aircraft. For Ukraine, which is under constant bombardment by Russian missile strikes, the Patriots are not just a military asset — they’re a matter of national survival.

Zelenskyy noted that Ukraine has already made several proposals to the U.S., including options to buy, lease, or even produce the systems under license. So far, however, the U.S. has not approved any of these ideas. Zelenskyy pointed out that the U.S. is currently selling Patriot systems to other countries, such as Israel, and questioned why the same could not be done for Ukraine. “I’m not saying Israel doesn’t need them,” he said, “but if we are partners, can’t a way be found to protect Ukraine?”

In response to the delays, Zelenskyy shared that some European nations have shown interest in co-financing the deal, provided the U.S. is willing to move forward with it. But the window of opportunity is narrowing as Russia ramps up its aerial assaults, targeting everything from power stations to civilian infrastructure.

Beyond financial and diplomatic efforts, Zelenskyy extended an invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to visit Ukraine and see firsthand the destruction inflicted by Russian forces. Zelenskyy also revealed that he has made similar license production requests during both the Trump and Biden administrations, as Ukraine seeks a longer-term solution for its defense needs.

However, political tensions in the U.S. may complicate matters. After the “60 Minutes” episode aired, which featured Zelenskyy’s interview and a segment from Greenland, Trump criticized the network for what he called unfair coverage and urged penalties against the broadcaster. This media clash risks overshadowing Ukraine’s urgent appeal.

Despite these hurdles, Zelenskyy remains firm. “If we want to survive and defend our people, we must act,” he said. His message to Washington is clear: Ukraine is willing to pay the price — financially and diplomatically — but it cannot wait forever.

As the war drags on and winter approaches, Kyiv is racing against time. The Patriot systems could be a game-changer in defending Ukrainian skies. Whether the U.S. responds positively may determine how many lives and critical facilities Ukraine can still protect in the months ahead.