Ukraine Pursues $90 Billion US Arms Deal, Confirms Patriot System from Israel

Ukraine Seeks Extensive US Arms and Drone Deals

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that Ukrainian officials are slated to visit the United States in the coming weeks to finalize discussions on a substantial $90 billion arms purchase and separate agreements for drone production. This development follows Zelenskyy's recent visit to the U.S., where he engaged with President Donald Trump and participated in the U.N. General Assembly.

During a press briefing in Kyiv, President Zelenskyy outlined the scope of these negotiations, emphasizing Ukraine's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities amidst ongoing conflict. The proposed arms acquisition, dubbed a 'Mega Deal,' involves a detailed list of American weaponry that Kyiv aims to procure.

The 'Mega Deal' and Upcoming US Visit

The $90 billion arms package represents one of Ukraine's most significant procurement efforts since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. Zelenskyy indicated that a comprehensive list, complete with specifications and illustrations of desired military equipment, has already been presented to the U.S. President. Ukrainian delegations are expected to hold technical meetings in the U.S. either in September or October to advance these negotiations. Kyiv is also reportedly interested in securing additional agreements for specific types of weapons, particularly long-range missiles, though details remain sensitive.

Advancing Drone Production and Export

In parallel with the arms purchase, discussions are underway for a 'Drone Deal,' which would involve the United States purchasing Ukrainian-manufactured drones. Ukraine has rapidly developed its drone industry since 2022, with hundreds of producers contributing to millions of drones. However, the country faces financial constraints in scaling up its production capacity. This agreement aims to address that by facilitating the export of Ukrainian unmanned systems to the U.S., thereby strengthening both countries' defense industrial ties.

Patriot System from Israel Bolsters Air Defense

A notable revelation from President Zelenskyy was the confirmation that Ukraine has received a US-made Patriot air defense system from Israel, which has been operational for approximately a month. This marks a significant shift, as Israel had previously maintained a neutral stance regarding military aid to Ukraine. Reports suggest that the system, previously based in Israel, was transferred to Ukraine following modernization. Israel's ambassador to Ukraine, Michael Brodsky, confirmed in June that systems once defending Israeli skies were now deployed in Ukraine. This change in Israel's position is attributed to cooling relations with Russia, particularly due to Russia's closer ties with Iran and the Kremlin's condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza.

Zelenskyy further stated that Ukraine anticipates receiving two additional Patriot systems this fall. These are likely to include systems from Germany, which has pledged two complete Patriot systems, with initial components already arriving. Ukraine's air defense network is a layered shield, integrating systems like Germany's IRIS-T and Gepard, the Franco-Italian SAMP/T, and the US-made Patriot batteries. Currently, Ukraine operates a total of nine Patriot systems from various international donors, including the U.S., Germany, Romania, and the Netherlands, in addition to the recent Israeli contribution.