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Zelenskiy, Trump Discuss Weapons Swap Deal Involving Ukrainian Drones and U.S. Arms

Zelenskiy, Trump Discuss Weapons Swap Deal Involving Ukrainian Drones and U.S. Arms

Jul 17, 2025 - 18:23
 0

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has revealed ongoing talks with U.S. President Donald Trump over a potential defense deal in which Washington would purchase battle-tested Ukrainian drones, while Kyiv would acquire American-made weapons in return.


In an interview with the New York Post on Wednesday, Zelenskiy said the agreement aims to strengthen both countries’ aerial capabilities and deepen defense cooperation.

“The American people need this technology, and you should have it in your arsenal,” Zelenskiy told The Post, referring to drones that have become a critical part of Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

He emphasized that drones have played a decisive role in helping Ukraine hold off Russia’s invasion for more than three years.

“We are ready to share this experience with America and other European partners,” he added.

Zelenskiy also confirmed that Ukraine is holding similar discussions with Denmark, Norway, and Germany.

On Thursday, speaking before Ukraine’s parliament as he presented a new government, Zelenskiy announced forthcoming agreements with the United States, though he stopped short of providing details. He said the deals would help further strengthen Ukraine’s defense posture.

The talks come as the U.S. national security and defense budget for 2026 includes increased investment in small drones a shift driven in part by lessons learned from Ukraine’s use of unmanned aircraft during the war. These drones have proven to be low-cost yet highly effective tools in modern warfare.

Earlier this year, Trump’s proposed $893 billion defense budget emphasized more funding for drones and missile systems while scaling back on traditional fighter jets like the F-35.

Zelenskiy, Trump Discuss Weapons Swap Deal Involving Ukrainian Drones and U.S. Arms

Jul 17, 2025 - 18:23
Jul 17, 2025 - 18:44
 0
Zelenskiy, Trump Discuss Weapons Swap Deal Involving Ukrainian Drones and U.S. Arms

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has revealed ongoing talks with U.S. President Donald Trump over a potential defense deal in which Washington would purchase battle-tested Ukrainian drones, while Kyiv would acquire American-made weapons in return.


In an interview with the New York Post on Wednesday, Zelenskiy said the agreement aims to strengthen both countries’ aerial capabilities and deepen defense cooperation.

“The American people need this technology, and you should have it in your arsenal,” Zelenskiy told The Post, referring to drones that have become a critical part of Ukraine’s defense against Russia.

He emphasized that drones have played a decisive role in helping Ukraine hold off Russia’s invasion for more than three years.

“We are ready to share this experience with America and other European partners,” he added.

Zelenskiy also confirmed that Ukraine is holding similar discussions with Denmark, Norway, and Germany.

On Thursday, speaking before Ukraine’s parliament as he presented a new government, Zelenskiy announced forthcoming agreements with the United States, though he stopped short of providing details. He said the deals would help further strengthen Ukraine’s defense posture.

The talks come as the U.S. national security and defense budget for 2026 includes increased investment in small drones a shift driven in part by lessons learned from Ukraine’s use of unmanned aircraft during the war. These drones have proven to be low-cost yet highly effective tools in modern warfare.

Earlier this year, Trump’s proposed $893 billion defense budget emphasized more funding for drones and missile systems while scaling back on traditional fighter jets like the F-35.