President Volodymyr Zelensky hailed a “fruitful conversation” with US President Donald Trump on Friday, where the two reportedly discussed air defense and joint arms production shortly after a massive Russian aerial assault on Kyiv left part of the city in flames.
Kyiv said it aimed to clarify on the call why, on Tuesday, the US had halted arms supplies bound for Ukraine.
Zelensky, in an X update after the call, thanked the US for its support and congratulated Americans on their 4th of July holiday before addressing other topics.
Zelensky said the two touched on the “current situation,” including “Russian airstrikes and the broader frontline developments.” He said Trump is “well-informed” on the situation.
Regarding air defense, Zelensky stated that the two agreed to strengthen Kyiv’s capabilities, without specifying the details.
“We spoke about opportunities in air defense and agreed that we will work together to strengthen protection of our skies. We have also agreed to a meeting between our teams,” Zelensky wrote without addressing specifically whether the flow of weapons has recommenced.
Previously, Trump publicly acknowledged that he would look into procuring more Patriot air defense missiles for Ukraine.
Zelensky also hinted at joint arms production with the US, including drones.
“We had a detailed conversation about defense industry capabilities and joint production. We are ready for direct projects with the United States and believe this is critically important for security, especially when it comes to drones and related technologies,” Zelensky wrote.
Zelensky also said the two “touched on mutual procurement” – a potential nod to Germany’s plan to procure air defense systems from the US on behalf of Kyiv.
“We also touched on mutual procurement and investment. Finally, we exchanged views on the diplomatic situation and joint work with the US and other partners,” Zelensky added.
Zelensky’s call with Trump took place just a day after the latter held an hour-long call with Russian leader Vladimir Putin.
Trump later said he is “not happy” and “disappointed” by the call, adding that he believes Putin has no intention of stopping the war.
Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov said Putin conveyed to Trump during the call that Moscow’s maximalist war goals remain unchanged.