Ankara: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for the 'strong' emphasis on bolstering his country's air defenses following a meeting with US President Donald Trump in the Turkish capital. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the NATO summit, where discussions centered around enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.

According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy shared on US social media platform X that the discussions with Trump were productive. The Ukrainian leader highlighted the importance of the emphasis placed on strengthening Ukraine's air defenses to better protect its citizens. The meeting also covered potential strategies to strengthen the positions of both parties and bring peace closer, with an emphasis on diplomatic efforts.

Zelenskyy reiterated his appreciation for the ongoing support from the US, mentioning the start of collaborative efforts on a drone deal. He acknowledged the shifting dynamics of the conflict, noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin's conditions for peace might be changing due to the loss of initiative on the battlefield.

Prior to meeting Trump, Zelenskyy engaged with a bipartisan delegation from the US Congress, discussing the prospects for diplomacy and the critical needs for its success. He emphasized the urgent requirement for contributions to the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) and other air defense deliveries, addressing the shortage of Patriot interceptors and the threat of Russian attacks.

In addition to his meeting with Trump, Zelenskyy also held discussions with several European leaders, including European Council President Antonio Costa, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and leaders from South Korea, Poland, Italy, and Bulgaria, highlighting a day of significant diplomatic engagements aimed at garnering further support for Ukraine's defense needs.