Ankara: President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that Ukraine is set to receive a package of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) interceptor missiles from the United States in the coming days. Alongside this development, Zelenskyy secured agreements with European partners after attending a NATO summit in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine and the United States have also agreed to conduct tests on maritime and aerial drones. The trials will be followed by the signing of cooperation agreements. The president noted that while the Drone Deal between Ukraine and the US is pending, preliminary documents have been signed to facilitate the testing of various types of drones.
Zelenskyy further disclosed a political understanding with US President Donald Trump on the domestic production of Patriot systems in Ukraine. Technical teams from both nations are poised to commence work on licensing to expedite the production process. Zelenskyy emphasized that President Trump has recognized Ukraine as capable of producing Patriots, a feat achieved by only a few countries globally.
In response to inquiries about his meeting with Trump and its implications for peace prospects, Zelenskyy expressed a sense of optimism, stating that Ukraine now perceives a "window of opportunity" as it strengthens its military capabilities. He remarked on the diminished advantage of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who, despite inflicting tragic strikes on Ukraine's civilian population, no longer holds significant military leverage.
The NATO summit also saw Trump, Zelenskyy, and other leaders in discussions, where Trump conveyed a mutual desire between Putin and Zelenskyy to conclude the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Trump asserted the US's readiness to provide security guarantees for Kyiv, including potentially 'closing the skies' over Ukraine if necessary. Additionally, the US is considering granting Kyiv a license to manufacture Patriot missiles, a move Trump highlighted to address concerns about military support levels.