**US Sends 90 Patriot Missiles to Ukraine**
The US has sent around 90 Patriot air defense interceptors from Israel to Poland for delivery to Ukraine. This is part of the Pentagon’s efforts to help Ukraine defend against Russian attacks on its critical infrastructure.
**Why Israel Agreed to Send the Missiles**
Israel had retired the Patriot system earlier this year after using it for over three decades. With Israel now relying on other advanced air defense technologies, like the Iron Dome, they agreed to send the missiles back to the US for refurbishment and delivery to Ukraine. This was done at the request of Ukrainian officials.
**What’s Happening with the Missiles**
The interceptors were transported from an Israeli air base to Rzeszów, Poland, where they will be further prepared before being sent to Ukraine. The equipment is compatible with the Patriot batteries already in use by Ukraine. Israel claims that they are simply returning the missiles to the US and not directly supplying them to Ukraine.
**Did Russia Know About the Transfer?**
Yes, Russia was informed about the transfer beforehand. An Israeli official said that they wanted to make it clear that this was not a direct supply of weapons from Israel to Ukraine, but rather a return of the Patriots to their original owners in the US.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com