Zelensky warns Middle East conflict could strain Ukraine air defenses
Mar 3rd 2026
Kyiv says a prolonged U.S.-Iran conflict could divert Patriot interceptors and other air defense munitions, though President Zelensky says there is no immediate sign of shortages.
- Zelensky said March 2 he is concerned but has received no signal from the U.S. or Europe of an immediate PAC-3 interceptor shortage.
- Ukraine relies on U.S. made Patriot interceptors that the U.S. has deployed to the Middle East.
- Ukrainian officials reported missile shortages in early February that left some air defense systems empty at times.
- The Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List program for buying high priority equipment remains active, Zelensky said.
- Experts warn a prolonged U.S.-Iran war could disrupt weapons production and logistics and reduce missile supplies to Ukraine.