KYIV — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Friday that he had a phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, during which they focused on strengthening Ukraine’s air defence capabilities in response to growing Russian aerial assaults. In a statement posted on Telegram, Zelenskiy noted that the leaders also discussed expanding joint defence production, as well as exploring new avenues for defence procurement and investment.
Ukraine has repeatedly urged the United States to provide additional Patriot missile systems, which Kyiv considers vital for shielding its cities from sustained Russian drone and missile strikes.
The talks between Zelenskiy and Trump come amid concerns in Ukraine over delays in U.S. weapons deliveries. Kyiv has warned that any disruption in military aid could hamper its ability to fend off Russian attacks both in the skies and on the battlefield. In response to the situation, Germany has entered negotiations to acquire Patriot systems to help cover Ukraine’s defence needs.
Zelenskiy’s call with Trump occurred shortly after Trump reported an unsatisfactory phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Hours after that exchange, Russia launched what Ukrainian officials described as the most extensive drone assault on Kyiv since the start of the war. President Zelenskiy condemned the strike, describing it as “deliberately massive and cynical.”
Separately, Spiegel magazine reported that Trump also held a conversation on Thursday with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. Citing government sources, the report said the two leaders discussed the security situation in Ukraine, particularly air defence cooperation, as well as broader trade issues.