Sources suggest Patriot missile system in Ukraine may be damaged

According to two US officials, a US-made Patriot missile defence system being used by Ukrainian forces has likely been damaged by a Russian air attack but is not believed to have been destroyed. The damage to the system follows Russia’s Defence Ministry claiming that a Russian hypersonic Kinzhal missile had destroyed a Patriot missile battery in Kyiv. The Patriot system is one of the most advanced US air defence systems and is typically made up of launchers, radar, and other support vehicles. While White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby could not confirm reports of damage to the Patriot system, he did state that the US would assist with repairs if needed. Ukrainian forces claimed success in shooting down 18 missiles, including six Kinzhals, which Russia had fired at targets in Kyiv.