AP exclusive: U.S. Patriot missile stocks in Europe 'beyond critical' due to Iran war, officials say

U.S. and NATO officials report that U.S. military stocks of Patriot missile interceptors in Europe have reached a level described as beyond critical. This depletion is attributed to the ongoing war with Iran, which has necessitated the heavy use of these defensive assets.

The shortfall has generated significant concern regarding the ability of the U.S. and NATO to defend against potential ballistic missile threats, specifically from Russia. While officials have noted that no such assault is currently underway, the limited inventory highlights vulnerabilities in regional defense capabilities.