Why the US sending Patriot air-defence systems to Ukraine isn't just about hitting Russian missiles
ABCThey are in high demand, short supply and considered one of the most advanced US air-defence systems. "Today’s assistance for the first time includes the Patriot Air Defense System, capable of bringing down cruise missiles, short range ballistic missiles, and aircraft at a significantly higher ceiling than previously provided air defence systems." The Patriot was among several Western weapons systems, including tanks and aircraft, that Ukraine had been "keen on" since the beginning of the war, Professor Fruehling said. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the US had "effectively become a party" to the war by providing Ukraine with weapons and training its troops. "Any weapons systems supplied to Ukraine, including the Patriot, along with the personnel servicing them, have been and will remain legitimate priority targets for the Russian armed forces," Ms Zakharova said.