As of October 19, 2026, the USA is delaying the delivery of Patriot missiles to Ukraine, despite the fact that payment for them has already been made by allies. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegset has yet to sign contracts for the transfer of a significant batch of missiles, raising concerns among Ukrainian officials.
Reasons for the Delay
According to information published by Kyiv Independent, the delay in supplies may be used by Washington as a tool to exert pressure on Kyiv. Sources in Ukraine indicate that there are political agreements that have not been implemented at the working level. They also note that contracts for the missiles are already on Hegset's desk, but he is not signing them.
Ukraine's Response
In Ukraine, it is believed that the delay in missile supplies could negatively impact the country's defense capabilities, especially in the face of ongoing threats from the aggressor. President Volodymyr Zelensky also emphasized the importance of receiving these missiles for protection against ballistic attacks. According to him, the situation is further complicated by the fact that Russian forces have struck 28 substations and other critical energy facilities.
US Reaction
The Pentagon has not yet commented on the situation regarding the delay in missile supplies. However, a US government representative denied the statements of Ukrainian officials, calling them "false." This raises additional questions about Washington's true intentions and the possible political motives behind this decision.