Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy Discuss US Weapons for Ukrainian Defense

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump discussed air defences, agreeing to enhance Kyiv's capability to defend against Russian attacks. Zelenskyy mentioned joint defence production and purchases during the conversation. Ukraine seeks more Patriot missiles from the US to protect its cities from Russian air strikes. Germany is also in talks to acquire Patriot air defence systems. The US paused some weapons shipments to Ukraine, but there is optimism that Patriot missile supplies could resume after the presidents' positive discussion.

After a disappointing call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump spoke with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz about strengthening Ukraine's air defences. Russia launched a significant drone attack on Kyiv following Trump's conversation with Putin. Zelenskyy condemned the attack as massive and cynical. Trump criticized his predecessor, Joe Biden, for providing aid to Ukraine without reciprocity. The leaders agreed to arrange a meeting to bolster air defences through joint production.