Israel has handed over Patriot surface-to-air missile systems from its own reserves to Ukraine. This was stated by the Israeli Ambassador to Ukraine, Michael Brodsky, in an interview with journalist Marichka Dovbenko, reports Baltimore Chronicle citing the interview.
According to the diplomat, these systems were part of Israel’s arsenal since the early 1990s and were originally received from the United States. Brodsky emphasized that the decision to transfer them was officially approved, although this information has largely remained out of public discussion. He stressed that claims about Israel’s alleged lack of military assistance are untrue.
The ambassador noted that he maintains active dialogue with the Ukrainian side regarding the war and added that he has faced criticism at home due to his pro-Ukrainian stance. He also expressed hope that peace would be achieved in Ukraine before the end of his tenure and mentioned that Israel’s experience in coping with war could be beneficial for Kyiv.
At the same time, Brodsky did not disclose the exact number of Patriot batteries transferred or specify the timing of the delivery.
It is worth recalling that earlier the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs proposed transferring Russian-made weapons captured from Hezbollah and IDF fighters to Ukraine. Similar initiatives were voiced last year. It was also reported that Israel plans to phase out its Patriot systems in favor of more modern air defense solutions.
Previously, the Defense Express publication wrote that officially Israel maintains a policy of neutrality and does not directly or indirectly supply weapons to Ukraine through intermediaries. However, it is possible that Israel’s stance on military aid could change in the future.
Currently, Ukraine operates approximately seven Patriot batteries from various countries including the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, and Romania. Experts estimate that at least 25 such systems are needed to ensure full protection of Ukrainian airspace.
Earlier we wrote that Israel has already closed trade barriers with US .