Ukraine Seeks US Deal for Long-Range Weapons

President Volodymyr Zelensky announced Ukraine is seeking new arms agreements with the United States. The talks will focus on securing long-range weaponry. This is in addition to an existing $90 billion security package.

Zelensky made the statement during a press conference in Kyiv on Saturday. He confirmed a Ukrainian delegation will soon travel to the U.S. for technical meetings. The broad terms were agreed upon with President Donald Trump during the UN General Assembly.

Technical Teams to Finalize Arms and Drone Agreements

The practical implementation of the weapons purchase will be the delegation’s primary goal. These meetings are scheduled for the end of September or early October. According to Zelensky, details remain confidential for security reasons.

Technical teams will also begin work on a separate deal. This involves the potential purchase of Ukrainian drones by the United States. The Associated Press reported Zelensky’s comments on Ukraine’s own long-range drone capabilities.

Broader Security Cooperation and Regional Incidents

Beyond new deals, Ukraine is sharing its expertise in countering drone swarms. Zelensky said some countries will send representatives to learn from Ukraine’s experience. This knowledge was gained from defending against sustained Russian attacks since 2022.

The press conference also addressed recent regional tensions. Zelensky stated that on September 10, 92 Russian drones were headed toward Poland. Ukraine intercepted most, but 19 reached eastern Polish airspace. He also mentioned an alleged Hungarian drone incursion, which Hungary’s military has denied.

Kyiv is pushing to solidify its defense capabilities for the long term. The potential for a new Ukraine long-range weapons deal signifies a critical step in strengthening its military posture against ongoing threats.

Dropping this nugget your way-

Q1: What is the value of the existing US-Ukraine arms agreement?

The existing security agreement is valued at $90 billion. The new discussions for long-range weapons are in addition to this substantial package. The funds are allocated for various defense needs.

Q2: When will the US and Ukraine meet to discuss the new deal?

A Ukrainian delegation is set to meet with US officials at the end of September or in early October. These will be technical meetings to work on practical implementation of the arms purchase.

Q3: Is the US interested in Ukrainian military technology?

Yes. Separate from buying weapons, the US will discuss purchasing Ukrainian drones. Technical teams will start work on this potential agreement soon.

Q4: What recent air defense support did Ukraine receive?

Ukraine received a US-made Patriot air defense system from Israel a month ago. Zelensky stated Ukraine expects two more systems this fall, though he did not specify the source.

Q5: Why is a long-range weapons deal important for Ukraine?

Long-range weapons allow Ukraine to strike military targets deep inside Russian territory. This capability is crucial for disrupting enemy logistics and command centers.

Trusted Sources: The Associated Press, Reuters.