Trump and Zelenskiy Discuss Patriot Missile Production and Renewed Russia Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met privately at the White House Tuesday to discuss reviving peace negotiations with Russia and plans allowing Ukraine to produce its own Patriot missile interceptors domestically.

Zelenskiy Pushes for Stronger Air Defenses

Following the meeting, Zelenskiy told reporters he emphasized Ukraine’s urgent need for anti ballistic missile systems, noting that while Ukrainian drones can intercept Iranian and Russian-made drones, additional defenses are still needed against ballistic missile attacks. He confirmed Trump had agreed to grant licenses allowing Ukraine to manufacture Patriot interceptors, addressing a supply shortage that has intensified as Russian air attacks increased.

Renewed Push for Diplomacy

Zelenskiy also stressed the importance of restarting diplomatic efforts to end the war, now entering its fifth year. U.S. envoys are reportedly planning their first visit to Ukraine as part of broader mediation efforts, having previously met with Russian officials multiple times since early 2025.

Senate Advances New Russia Sanctions

The visit coincided with the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham, a longtime Ukraine supporter who died earlier this month. Following the service, Zelenskiy met with senators before witnessing a Senate vote on a bipartisan sanctions package targeting Russia’s war financing, legislation Graham had championed shortly before his death.

The visit followed reports that the Pentagon told Congress it would delay spending $400 million in previously authorized Ukraine aid until 2029, drawing criticism from lawmakers across party lines who had supported the funding.