Ukrainian operators of US-supplied Patriot surface-to-air missile systems have joined F-16 fighter pilots in expressing gratitude to the American people, emphasizing that US military aid has been crucial in protecting Ukrainian cities from Russian attacks.
In videos released by Ukraine’s Air Command Zakhid (West) and Air Command Pivden (South), the operators, speaking in English, directly addressed the American public.
“Thanks to all the American people for providing us with weapons!” one operator said. “Thanks to your support, we are still alive, and we are able to protect our cities and the civilians who live there. Thank you to the American people!”
The message follows similar statements from Ukrainian F-16 pilots. In a video shared by pilot Vadym Voroshylov, known as “Karaya,” and Colonel Yurii Ihnat, Head of the Communications Department of the Ukrainian Air Force Command, pilots thanked Americans for their role in Ukraine’s defense.
“Dear American people. My combat brothers, who are defend Ukraine on F-16 aircraft, convey the words of gratitude for the opportunity to effectively protect Ukrainian cities from Russian terror, to protect the people of Ukraine,” Voroshylov said.
Voroshylov added, “Your help is an opportunity for us to fight for our democracy. Thank you very much for your support. Together to victory!!!”
These public messages of appreciation come after a heated exchange between US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a February 28 press conference in the Oval Office.
Trump, in a tense moment, told Zelenskyy he “should be grateful” for US support and accused Ukraine of “playing with World War III.” He warned, “Either you make a deal or we’re out.”
Vice President J.D. Vance backed Trump, saying that Zelenskyy “should be grateful to the president of the United States,” who is “trying to prevent the destruction of his country.”
Following the exchange, the Ukrainian delegation left the White House earlier than planned, and Ukraine and the U.S. failed to sign a highly anticipated framework agreement on mineral resources.
Trump later criticized Zelenskyy, claiming he “is not a person who wants peace” and arguing that Russian President Vladimir Putin is willing to end the war.
Trump Halts Military Aid To Ukraine
Following a tense and highly publicized confrontation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the White House, US President Donald Trump has intensified his hardline stance on Ukraine by suspending all US military aid to the country with immediate effect.
There has been no official clarification on the scope or duration of this suspension. However, sources indicate it could impact weapons and ammunition shipments valued at over US$1 billion (€950 million).
Western military experts estimate that Ukraine’s armed forces should be able to maintain their current intensity of operations for about six months, thanks to weapons that have already been delivered. Beyond that timeframe, however, the situation could become critical if no further military support arrives.
The suspended aid package includes a broad range of battlefield equipment essential for Ukraine’s war effort. Among the halted deliveries are Abrams and Bradley tanks, self-propelled howitzers, mortar and artillery shells, various drones and their armaments, rocket launchers, and mine-clearing equipment.
Beyond direct combat weapons, US military aid has also played a key role in maintaining Ukraine’s military logistics. The US has provided troop transporters, support trucks, and armored bridge layers, equipment that is essential for sustaining the movement and operations of Ukrainian forces.
Perhaps the most serious consequence of the aid suspension is its impact on Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. The United States has supplied several critical air defense systems, including Hawk, Patriot, Stinger, and Avenger systems, along with the necessary ammunition.
These systems have been instrumental in repelling Russian missile and drone attacks, which frequently target critical infrastructure such as power plants, transport networks, and Ukraine’s defense industry.
If US military aid remains frozen, Ukraine’s air defense network could quickly weaken. European allies lack the capacity to provide a sufficient number of Patriot missile systems, making American support irreplaceable. Without additional supplies, Ukraine may struggle to defend itself against Russia’s relentless air strikes.
Ukraine has already experienced the severe consequences of delayed US military aid. In 2023–2024, when American assistance was temporarily stalled, Ukraine was left without enough air defense missiles to intercept incoming Russian attacks.
This led to the destruction of several key energy facilities, including the Trypillia thermal power plant, one of the country’s most important electricity suppliers.
At the time, Ukrainian officials reported that their missile stockpile had run dry, allowing Russian projectiles to hit their targets unchallenged. As of today, Ukraine reportedly has six operational Patriot air defense systems, though their locations remain classified to prevent them from becoming Russian targets.
These systems continue to protect Ukrainian cities, but experts warn that they are insufficient. To ensure comprehensive protection for its major cities, military sites, and energy infrastructure, Ukraine would need between 25 and 30 Patriot systems.
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