President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed the information previously published by US media, including the Wall Street Journal ,-the United States moved to the Middle East 20,000 missiles, which were intended to fight Iranian Drone-Kamikadze in Ukraine. The Head of State said this in an interview with ABC News.
“We had a big joint project from the United States to counteract Shahanedam, we were counting on these 20,000 missiles. But today, my defense minister reported that these missiles were thrown over the US troops to the Middle East, ”Zelensky said.
Rockets with unique technology
These are missiles with so -called "contactless detonators" - modern technologies that allow to destroy air goals without direct contact. Their effectiveness in the fight against drones has already been proven in practice.
According to WSJ, the United States initially purchased these systems for Ukraine, but the decision was changed at the last moment. US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegset ordered them to send them to the US Air Force to the Middle East. The Pentagon told the Senate defense committee that it was related to the "urgent needs" of the US military.
The new administration is new priorities
The publication emphasizes that such actions indicate a change in the approach of the new Donald Trump administration to support Ukraine. WSJ reports that the Pentagon did not explain how this forwarding will affect the ability of the Armed Forces to fight drones that Russia launches daily up to 300-400 units.
Some congressmen have already expressed indignation. One of the anonymous assistants stated the publication: "The refusal to Ukraine with the essential weapon at this critical moment of war is unthinkable."
Preparing for conflict with Iran or Audit of Kiev support?
According to analysts, this step may be related to the preparation for a possible conflict with Iran or the activation of Hussites in Yemen. However, at the same time, there is an assumption that reorientation of military assistance is a signal of weakening Kyiv's political support by Washington.
Financing is not renewed, help - in question
The Trump administration has not yet used the right to give Ukraine a weapon worth $ 3.85 billion from the Pentagon reserves, and has not submitted requests for new financing within the framework of the Ukraine Program for promoting Ukraine's security. In addition, the US Secretary of Defense has refused to participate in the last Ramstein meeting, which further exacerbates the issue of future support.
Danger increases - defense weakens
Against the background of constant attacks by drones, Ukraine's air defense needs to be strengthened. Zelensky emphasized that Shakhaneda's production plants have already been built in Russia and the number of attacks is increasing. In such circumstances, deprivation of access to critical air defense systems can have serious consequences for the country's security.