Defense Missiles Become The First Supply Of Weapons From The US

Ukrainian Military/PHOTO via X @ZelenskyyUa

JAKARTA - The first supply of weapons under a new program agreed by the US and Ukrainian allies in Europe will include valuable missiles for NASAMS and Patriot air defense systems.

So far, Ukraine has secured more than $2 billion in financing for US weapons production through a NATO-led mechanism called Ukraine's Priority Requirement List.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy estimates the total promised funds will reach $3.5 billion in October.

The first two waves, $500 million each, "would definitely cover" air defense missiles, Zelenskyy said at a joint news conference with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola in Kyiv.

Ukraine relies heavily on the West long-range air defense system to shoot down Russian missiles.

Kyiv regularly updates requests for additional supplies following the Russian attack, resulting in a high number of civilian casualties.

Ukraine is also preparing for the warm-up season, as officials believe Russia will accelerate attacks on destroyed energy systems, including gas infrastructure.

The first batch of equipment through PURL has started to flow, senior NATO representatives in Ukraine told Reuters.

"Four packages in Ukraine's Priority Requirement List have been funded and equipment has started to flow," Patrick Turner said.