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U.S. President Donald Trump expressed support for Ukraine’s request for Patriot missiles following a call with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, citing escalating Russian airstrikes and the need for stronger air defenses. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “They’re going to need them for defense... They’re being hit pretty hard,” referring to the intensifying Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Trump called the Patriot missile system “pretty amazing,” acknowledging its importance in protecting Kyiv’s skies. He also voiced frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing their recent conversation as “very unhappy” and criticizing Putin’s unwillingness to pursue a ceasefire. “He wants to go all the way, just keep killing people—it’s no good,” Trump told reporters.
Zelenskiy confirmed that he and Trump discussed boosting Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, joint weapons production, and potential U.S. investments. The Ukrainian leader emphasized the urgency of strengthening defenses amid Russia’s largest drone attack on Kyiv since the war began.
A source familiar with the Trump-Zelenskiy call said the conversation was “very good,” and suggested that Patriot missile deliveries might resume. Trump also discussed Ukraine’s missile request with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, though no decision was reached.
The U.S. previously supplied Patriot systems under President Joe Biden, but recent policy shifts have halted some shipments. Kyiv has warned that these pauses could severely impact its ability to repel Russian airstrikes. Germany has indicated it may step in to fill the gap.
Zelenskiy noted that the two leaders agreed to coordinate team-level meetings aimed at enhancing air defense cooperation. “We had a detailed talk on joint production. We need it, and America needs it,” he said in a nightly video address.
