Kyiv: The US and Ukrainian governments have drafted a memorandum outlining the framework for a potential new defense agreement, CBS News reported Tuesday, citing sources. The draft, developed by the US State Department and Ukrainian Ambassador to the US, Olha Stefanishyna, marks an initial step toward a partnership that could enable Ukraine to export military technology to the US and collaboratively manufacture drones with American companies.

According to Anadolu Agency, this collaboration comes as Ukraine has utilized innovations developed through more than four years of conflict with Russia, particularly during confrontations involving Iran. Ukraine has deployed drone interceptors and pilots to the Middle East to assist US allies in countering Iranian-designed Shahed drones, similar to those used by Russia against Ukraine.

In recent months, Ukraine has signed defense agreements with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, with Ukrainian officials indicating that additional deals are forthcoming. “Nearly 20 countries are currently involved at various stages: 4 agreements have already been signed, and the first contracts under these agreements are now being prepared,” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Telegram.

The initial proposal for drone cooperation with the US was made by Ukrainian officials in August 2025, following US President Donald Trump’s private commendation of Operation Spiderweb. This significant Ukrainian drone strike, carried out with remotely guided explosive drones launched from smuggled trucks, successfully destroyed numerous Russian warplanes at airfields across the country.

Ukrainian officials have emphasized that cooperation with the US would be mutually beneficial, as American funding could help expand defense production capabilities in both nations.