Pentagon has announced plans to supply Patriot air defense missiles and ammunition to Ukraine as part of a new military aid package, the BBC reported. However, Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin clarified that the Patriot system would not be deployed to launch missiles.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the urgent need for the Patriot system in light of escalating Russian airstrikes, stating that it could potentially save lives from Russian attacks.

Over the weekend, Ukraine reported another major airstrike by Russia, with authorities in the northeastern city of Kharkiv revealing damage to a hospital and three regional energy centers, as well as railway infrastructure.

Defense Secretary Austin, speaking at a news conference, highlighted the United States' commitment to providing its largest security assistance package to date, with $6 billion allocated for this purpose. This funding is part of the $60 billion aid package signed by President Joe Biden last Wednesday, with $1 billion earmarked for more immediate assistance.

Austin expressed confidence that additional missiles would be delivered to Kiev soon, with ongoing discussions with European partners. Some of the funds will also be directed towards bolstering Ukraine's defense industry to enhance ammunition production and meet demand.

Addressing concerns about Russia's military capabilities, Austin noted Russia's increased domestic production of artillery ammunition and weapons, supplemented by acquisitions from Iran and North Korea.

Austin underscored the significance of US aid in enhancing Ukraine's defense capacity, emphasizing that Ukrainian forces are actively engaged on the battlefield.

Russia's arsenal includes cruise missiles, S-300 surface-to-air missiles, and Iskander ballistic missiles, with Ukraine claiming to have successfully intercepted 21 such missiles recently.

Meanwhile, Ukraine reported striking two Russian oil refineries across the border, resulting in a significant explosion captured in footage from the Russian region of Krasnodar. Russia retaliated by claiming to have shot down 68 Ukrainian drones over its territory.