Zelenskyy: Joint Efforts to Reinforce Ukraine’s Air Defenses Discussed with Trump
Zelenskyy added that their conversation also touched on joint production initiatives and defense industry collaboration, with a focus on drones and related technologies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Friday that he and former US President Donald Trump had agreed to work together to bolster Ukraine’s air defenses, amid heightened anxiety in Kyiv over the future of American military support.
“We discussed opportunities in air defense and agreed to cooperate on strengthening the protection of our skies,” Zelenskyy posted on social media after their phone conversation.
According to Axios, which cited a Ukrainian official and a separate source familiar with the call, Trump indicated his desire to help Ukraine reinforce its air defenses in response to intensifying Russian strikes. The call reportedly lasted around 40 minutes.
One source told Axios that Trump also pledged to look into which American weapons deliveries to Ukraine might be delayed or under review.
Focus on air defense, drones, and joint production
Zelenskyy described the exchange as “very important and productive,” saying he congratulated Trump on US Independence Day and provided updates on battlefield developments, air defense needs, and potential joint military projects.
“We in Ukraine deeply appreciate all the support we’ve received. It saves lives and protects our freedom and independence,” Zelenskyy wrote.
“We back every effort aimed at halting the bloodshed and achieving a just, lasting, and dignified peace. A fair agreement for peace is essential.”
He noted that they paid special attention to recent Russian air attacks and frontline conditions.
“President Trump is very well informed, and I am grateful for his attention to Ukraine,” Zelenskyy said.
Their discussion also covered prospects for collaboration on defense industry initiatives, especially involving drones and related technologies. Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness for direct joint projects with the US, calling them “critically important” for national security.
The leaders also touched on issues of procurement, investment, and coordination with broader US and international partners.
Backdrop of Trump-Putin talks
This call between Trump and Zelenskyy came just a day after Trump reportedly spoke by phone with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he expressed frustration over the lack of progress in efforts to end the war.
