WASHINGTON, Nov 19, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - The United States on Tuesday approved a $105 million sale to Ukraine to upgrade and sustain Patriot missile defenses, as Russia keeps pummeling its smaller neighbor.

The State Department said it informed Congress of the deal for parts, training and services on the Patriots, which Ukraine relies on to shoot down incoming missiles.

The sale includes upgrading from M901 to M903 launchers, which can fire more missiles at once.

"The proposed sale will improve Ukraine's ability to meet current and future threats," a State Department statement said.

Ukraine will pay for the Patriot upgrades. President Donald Trump has been critical of US military assistance to Ukraine, which has totaled some $67 billion since Russia invaded in February 2022.

Despite Trump's calls to end the war, Russia has rebuffed appeals for a long-term ceasefire and has pressed forward with attacks on Ukraine.

Zelensky is traveling Wednesday to Turkey on a trip to revive US involvement in diplomatic efforts.

Zelensky said last month that Ukraine needed another 25 Patriot systems to fend off escalating Russian attacks.