Zelenskyy Appreciates US Support in Call with Trump, Focuses on Air Defense and Drones

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reported a productive phone conversation with former US President Donald Trump, expressing gratitude for America’s willingness to assist Ukraine. Zelensky highlighted an agreement with a leading American company to boost joint drone efforts. The discussion also covered air defense, with Zelensky emphasizing the importance of Patriot systems in countering ballistic threats. Simultaneously, reports emerged of a Ukrainian military attack on a Russian airbase near Voronezh, while Moscow’s air defenses intercepted several Ukrainian drones approaching the capital. The Russian Defense Ministry noted a high number of intercepted drones over a short period, and the Ukrainian Air Force reported numerous drone launches and interceptions during the same timeframe. Trump, following his talks with Zelensky, underscored the need for Patriot missiles to protect Ukraine and voiced dissatisfaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unwillingness to end the conflict.