The Patriot surface-to-air missile system has become one of Ukraine's most important platforms during Russia's full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Since 2023, Patriots in Ukraine have been used to down drones, ballistic missiles and Russian aircraft.

In response to the escalating threat, President Trump confirmed Monday that the U.S. will send additional Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine. He noted that the European Union would finance the purchase of what he described as "various pieces of very sophisticated" U.S. weaponry.