US stops supplying Patriot missiles to Ukraine: Spain and Japan intervene

“Right now, American Patriot systems are actively used around the world, especially in the Middle East, mainly to protect American soldiers,” Sullivan said, according to Military Watch Magazine.

He stipulated, “If we can organize more American Patriot units, we would certainly deploy them. However, we are primarily engaged in delivering the actual missiles that make up these ready-to-fire batteries.” He further emphasized that ongoing efforts are being made to coordinate with European allies the provision of their own air defense units to Ukraine.

He further stated, “In the meantime, our intention is to coordinate with our European allies and other global partners to improve Ukraine’s air defense capabilities.” Sullivan continued, making his point very clear.

The need has increased significantly

The need for modern air defenses in Ukraine has increased significantly. The country’s extensive arsenals, predominantly composed of the Soviet-era S-300 system, are constantly being depleted and cannot be replaced. These systems are manufactured exclusively in Russia.

The increasing importance of the Russian Air Force in front-line conflicts cannot be ignored. Western observers have confirmed their extensive use of surface-to-air bombs. When combined with the increasing artillery superiority of the Russian forces, this significantly influences the results. Ukraine’s artillery is quickly depleting, tipping the balance even more in that direction.

In response to growing global pressures, the US has increased its military presence in the Middle East since October 2023 by deploying new Patriot and THAAD surface-to-air missile systems. This maneuver clearly illustrates the increasing pressure on US air defense systems around the world.

Not surprisingly, Jake Sullivan’s statements reflect these tensions. However, the likelihood of European countries contributing their Patriot missile resources remains low.

Spain, Japan intervene

In Spain, a country that operates 18 Patriot batteries, it has been confirmed that they can supply Ukraine with several mobile missile launchers. Moreover, Madrid is taking the initiative to supply new Leopard 2 tanks to compensate for Ukraine’s losses.

Japan has also joined the ranks, preparing to resell its Patriot systems to the US. They are expected to then be given to Ukraine as aid. Footage from the Ukrainian front near Pokrovsk, Donetsk, recorded on March 8, underscores the urgency of having more systems in place. The images show the destruction of the MIM-104 Patriot and S-300 surface-to-air missile systems by a Russian Iskander-M ballistic system.

This incident is not the first time Patriots have been destroyed by Russian forces, but this time it was clearly recorded in drone footage. The depletion of Ukrainian air defenses gave Russian forces the opportunity to attack critical infrastructure across the country. This has put additional pressure on Kiev’s Western sponsors, whose aid largely supports the state budget.

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