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Ukraine strikes Iskander launchers amid Patriot missile shortage

8/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ukraine launched an operation against Russian Iskander missile launchers near its borders on Aug. 22.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said the strike aimed to counter missile attacks due to Patriot shortage.
Ukraine received 264 Patriot missiles this year and requested 360 for the winter.
Zelensky warned Russia can produce 1,300 ballistic missiles annually and holds about 600–630.
Germany agreed to deliver 600 PAC-2 missiles for Ukraine’s Patriot systems in 2027–2028.

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Story summary

Ukraine launched an operation against Russian Iskander missile launchers near its borders on Aug. 22.
President Volodymyr Zelensky said the strike aimed to counter missile attacks due to Patriot shortage.
Ukraine received 264 Patriot missiles this year and requested 360 for the winter.
Zelensky warned Russia can produce 1,300 ballistic missiles annually and holds about 600–630.
Germany agreed to deliver 600 PAC-2 missiles for Ukraine’s Patriot systems in 2027–2028.