According to Moscow’s ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, the potential transfer of Patriots from West Jerusalem to Kiev could have serious consequences, especially affecting Israel’s relations with Russia. The US, Israel, and Ukraine are reportedly discussing the delivery of up to eight old Israeli Patriot air-defense systems to Ukraine, a move that Nebenzia believes could lead to political repercussions.
Israel had previously planned to retire its M901 PAC-2 batteries, which are over 30 years old, to replace them with more advanced air-defense systems. However, concerns about escalating tensions with Hezbollah in Lebanon have delayed the retirement of these outdated systems.
Russia has repeatedly cautioned against sending foreign weapons to Kiev, emphasizing that it will not deter Moscow from achieving its military objectives and may escalate the conflict, potentially leading to a direct confrontation between Russia and NATO.
Despite Ukraine’s shortage of air defenses, Israel has only provided humanitarian aid and refused previous requests for military support, including Vladimir Zelensky’s appeal for Israeli Iron Dome systems.