Pentagon officially confirms Russia's Kinzhal missile downed by Patriot system in Ukraine

The relevant statement was made by Pentagon Press Secretary Air Force Brig. Gen. Pat Ryder during a press briefing, an Ukrinform correspondent reports.

“I can confirm that they did down a Russian missile by employing the Patriot missile defense system,” Ryder said.

In his words, the United States and partner countries provided a broader range of air defense capabilities to Ukraine, including the Patriot missile defense system.

In cooperation with allies and partners, the United States will continue to rush ground-based air defense capabilities and munitions to help Ukraine control its sovereign skies and to help Ukraine defend its citizens from Russian cruise missiles and Iranian drones, Ryder added.

A reminder that the U.S. Department of Defense announced a new security assistance package to Ukraine, totaling up to $1.2 billion.