Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated that Russia continues its war in Ukraine and that Moscow has not shown a genuine willingness to negotiate. Zelenskiy expressed his goal for the war to end before next winter or at least for a ceasefire to be established by then.
Speaking after meetings with G7 leaders, Zelenskiy conveyed a shared view among Western allies that Russian President Vladimir Putin particularly avoids direct talks. Zelenskiy accused Russia of prolonging the process and continuing to do so.
In a released audio message, Zelenskiy said sanctions remain the most effective pressure tool on Moscow. However, as long as Putin rejects the possibility of direct talks, Ukraine’s priority should be to strengthen its air defense.
Air defense was central to the agenda
The Ukrainian leader confirmed that one of the main topics at the G7 leaders’ meeting was air defense systems. Zelenskiy said everyone recognized this need and that G7 countries would work to strengthen Ukraine’s defense.
According to Zelenskiy, the agenda is not limited to purchasing more US-made Patriot systems and interceptors. Kyiv also wants to take steps to produce these systems on its own territory.
License issue discussed with Trump
Zelenskiy said he met with US President Donald Trump during breaks at the G7 summit and discussed transferring the production licenses of Patriot systems to Ukraine. He noted that Trump responded positively to this topic.
The Ukrainian leader said his team will now work on this issue and hopes to obtain licenses to produce the related anti-ballistic systems and missiles.
The Patriot air defense system stands out as Ukraine’s only surface-to-air missile system against Russia’s ballistic missile threat. The systems are produced in the US by Raytheon and Lockheed Martin and are used by many allies, including Ukraine and Gulf countries.
Missile stocks and production capacity under pressure
The report noted that the US-Israel war has consumed about one-third of the Patriot interceptor stocks. Some estimates suggest Gulf countries have used more than 1,100 interceptors in recent months.
Lockheed Martin produces about 600 interceptors annually, while Zelenskiy previously said monthly production is at best around 60 to 65 missiles. According to Kyiv’s administration, Russia can produce about 120 ballistic missiles and other types of missiles each month.
The Russian military has exploited Ukraine’s interceptor shortage in recent attacks, launching more than 30 ballistic missiles per night. However, Ukraine’s interception rate against cruise missiles is about 80%, and its success rate against drones exceeds 90%.
Ukraine also plays a role in drone defense
Zelenskiy said Ukraine has developed significant experience in drone defense and that this expertise has turned the country from just a recipient into a provider. He stated that Ukraine has become a key player supplying air defense to European and Middle Eastern countries.
During the G7 talks, drone agreements were also discussed. Zelenskiy announced that Ukraine is about to sign a major drone deal with Canada. He emphasized that Ukraine’s support in the Middle East is recognized thanks to this expertise.
