Ukraine expects to receive US-made THAAD missile defense systems already deployed in several Middle Eastern countries, Vladimir Zelensky said, according to Strana.ua.

The publication notes that these systems are among the most expensive: the cost of a single battery is estimated at $1–2.7 billion, while each missile costs $12–15 million.

An additional factor is the situation in the Middle East, where the risk of strikes from Iran remains, making missile defense systems deployed there in high demand locally. Against this backdrop, the outlet concludes that the likelihood of transferring such systems to Kiev is effectively zero.

The US and Israeli military campaign against Iran has been ongoing for more than a month, with both sides continuing to exchange strikes.

Earlier, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington may redirect weapons to the Middle East instead of supplying Ukraine. According to him, decisions will be based on US security priorities, including the need to replenish stockpiles and carry out military missions.

Zelensky also stated that Ukraine is interested in obtaining missile defense systems similar to those available in Middle Eastern countries, including THAAD, emphasizing that neither Kiev nor European states possess such systems.