The Patriot surface-to-air missile system has become one of Ukraine's most important platforms during Russia's full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Since 2023, Patriots in Ukraine have been used to down drones, ballistic missiles and Russian aircraft.

Russia launched ten times more drones and missiles in June 2025 compared to the same month in 2024, the U.N. said. Simultaneously, Russia's larger army is renewing its offensive along segments of the 620-mile front line,

In a significant shift toward Ukraine, Trump announces a plan to send advanced weaponry including Patriot systems, and threatens 100% tariffs if Russia can’t reach a peace deal soon.