A high-profile meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly has green-lit a new long-range arms deal for Ukraine. Zelensky confirmed that the two leaders reached a broad agreement, which will now be fleshed out in detailed technical talks.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in Ukraine’s campaign to acquire more powerful offensive weapons. Zelensky stated that a Ukrainian delegation will be in the US in late September or early October for the “practical implementation” of the purchase, which will be in addition to an existing $90 billion support package.
The focus on long-range systems is a strategic choice by Kyiv, aimed at giving its military the ability to disrupt Russian logistics, command centers, and other critical assets far behind the front lines. This capability is seen as essential for shaping the battlefield to Ukraine’s advantage.
The partnership forged at the UN also includes a collaborative technology element. Zelensky announced that the US has expressed interest in purchasing Ukrainian drones, and that joint technical teams will soon begin work on the details. This two-way exchange underscores the deepening and evolving nature of the US-Ukraine defense relationship.
As these plans for new offensive capabilities move forward, Ukraine’s immediate defenses are being bolstered. Zelensky confirmed the recent arrival of a US-made Patriot air defense system from Israel, with two more expected this fall, providing a stronger security foundation for the nation.
After UN Meeting, Zelensky and Trump Green-Light New Long-Range Arms Deal
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