Following a meeting with US President Donald Trump and European leaders at the White House on 18/8, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the press, stating that security guarantees for Ukraine were discussed. One option involves Kiev purchasing $90 billion of US weaponry using European funds.
"We've also reached an agreement with the US President for them to acquire Ukrainian drones once they are available for export," Zelensky added.
However, the Ukrainian leader emphasized that discussions are ongoing, and a finalized agreement is expected within the next 7 to 10 days.
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President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks to the press in Washington, D.C., on 18/8. Photo: AP |
President Volodymyr Zelensky speaks to the press in Washington, D.C., on 18/8. Photo: AP
The Financial Times previously reported, citing a document, that Ukraine pledged to buy $100 billion in US arms with European funding, in exchange for security guarantees from Washington after a peace agreement with Moscow is reached. A separate $50 billion deal for drone production between the US and Ukraine is also under consideration.
Four sources familiar with the matter indicated that Ukraine shared these proposals with European allies prior to the Trump-Zelensky meeting.
While Ukraine hasn't specified the desired weaponry, it has expressed interest in at least 10 Patriot air defense systems, along with other missiles and military equipment. The document also lacks details on the balance between procurement and investment within the drone agreement.
Ukraine's proposal seemingly aligns with Trump's focus on benefiting the US defense industry. When questioned by reporters about continued military aid to Ukraine, President Trump emphasized that the US would "not give anything away, only sell weapons."
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A Patriot missile launcher deployed by the US in Poland in 9/2024. Photo: US Army |
A Patriot missile launcher deployed by the US in Poland in 9/2024. Photo: US Army
Earlier this month, NATO established the Ukraine Priority Requirements List (PURL). European members and Canada will contribute funds to purchase US arms for transfer to Ukraine. Each aid package, valued at roughly $500 million, will include equipment and ammunition prioritized by Ukraine for its operations.
This initiative stems from an agreement between President Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on 14/7. Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden subsequently announced their intention to purchase over $1 billion in US arms under this new NATO plan to support Ukraine.
Pham Giang (CNN, Financial Times)
