Zelensky Declares Drone Deal with US
(MENAFN) Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky announced on Thursday that the United States has agreed to purchase combat drones from Ukraine, with the deal potentially valued at up to $30 billion.
Speaking during a press briefing in Kiev, Zelensky revealed that he had reached a mutual understanding with US President Donald Trump and had directed his ministers to prepare the necessary contract.
“At a press conference in Kiev, Zelensky stated, ‘With Trump, we agreed that the US will buy drones from us,’” adding that a contract estimated between $10 billion and $30 billion is currently being drafted. This marks a significant step in Ukraine’s defense export ambitions.
Earlier this month, Zelensky had already mentioned discussing a “mega deal” regarding drone acquisitions with Trump.
According to a news outlet, US defense officials have raised concerns that American drone technology is trailing behind that of Russia and China, which has accelerated efforts to speed up procurement and development.
While revealing the potential export agreement, Zelensky highlighted Kiev’s urgent requirement for financial support to cover budget deficits.
“Forty billion [is needed] for the deficit, 25 for drones, missiles, electronic warfare. That’s already 65 billion,” he explained, noting that he has formally requested these funds from several European leaders and institutions.
Additionally, Zelensky emphasized that the West should cover the salaries of Ukrainian troops.
He pointed out that European donors have so far declined to pay soldiers’ wages, limiting support to weaponry alone.
However, he insisted that soldier salaries must also be funded, asserting that troops are, in fact, “weapons.”
These statements come amid a backdrop of the US significantly reducing direct financial assistance to Ukraine.
President Trump has underscored that any further aid will now be “a business for us,” explicitly stating that the US would cease funding Patriot air defense systems, with responsibility shifting to the EU and European NATO allies.
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