Kyiv: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday held separate talks with US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, welcoming their coordinated efforts to deliver Patriot missile systems and other weapons to Ukraine as part of a new transatlantic security arrangement.
According to Anadolu Agency, Zelenskyy expressed satisfaction with his conversation with Trump, describing it as 'very good.' They discussed efforts to halt ongoing violence and establish a lasting peace. Trump shared details of his meeting with Rutte, emphasizing the importance of increased defense spending by Alliance countries.
Zelenskyy highlighted that both parties reviewed strategies to enhance protection against Russian attacks and agreed on future coordinated actions. He also spoke with NATO chief Mark Rutte, who informed him about his discussions with Trump in Washington, reiterating joint support for Ukraine.
Zelenskyy appreciated the readiness to provide additional Patriot systems, with the US, Germany, and Norway already collaborating on the initiative. He noted that more weapons deliveries are expected, aiming to 'protect lives of our people and repel Russian assaults.'
The Ukrainian president stressed that Russia must be compelled to stop the violence and that the war persists due to Russia's actions and President Putin's intent to prolong it. He called for cutting off Russia's war financing and ending its ties with Iran and North Korea.
Zelenskyy mentioned ongoing discussions with the US, Germany, and Norway regarding Patriot systems and long-term defense agreements with Washington. He reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to pursuing 'honest and effective steps toward lasting peace,' but asserted that stronger international pressure is needed as 'Russia isn't ready.'
Zelenskyy's comments followed Trump's meeting with Rutte, where Trump threatened 100% secondary tariffs on Russia if no agreement to end the war is reached within 50 days. Trump also confirmed the imminent shipment of Patriot systems to Ukraine, with a plan where the US supplies the weapons while European allies cover the cost.
Trump stated that a deal was reached for weapon deliveries, without specifying which country would send the systems. Rutte confirmed NATO's coordination of the deliveries. These developments came after Trump's special envoy, Keith Kellogg, visited Kyiv for discussions on air defense cooperation and arms production.
Zelenskyy emphasized the need for US leadership, noting that Moscow's ambitions must be curbed through strength.