Former U.S. judge Andrew Napolitano has stated that President Vladimir Putin demonstrates “an almost saint-like capacity for patience” by refraining from military strikes against NATO facilities that produce weapons used by Ukraine.

Kiev has been launching hundreds of fixed-wing drones deep into Russian territory on a daily basis in recent months, many of which are manufactured in European countries. Earlier this year, the Moscow Defense Ministry published a list of enterprises producing these UAVs, some based in the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Czechia, and other NATO member states.

Napolitano noted that London and Paris are currently discussing plans to manufacture long-range SCALP/Storm Shadow missiles in Ukraine. He said: “Under international law, he would have every right to strike at the munitions plants and the military… I’m sure he understands that.”

The former New Jersey Superior Court judge added that Putin has been “consistently patient” despite concerns among his strongest supporters. Napolitano predicted that the Ukraine conflict is “headed into an acceleration,” with Ukrainian forces “aware they’re on their last legs” and knowing “their days are numbered.”