Ukraine is preparing to secure new arms deals with the United States that will extend far beyond an existing $90 billion agreement, President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced. The focus of these new negotiations will be on acquiring advanced long-range weapons, a capability Kyiv deems essential for its military strategy. This ambitious push for more firepower follows a direct agreement between Zelensky and US President Donald Trump.
The sheer scale of the existing financial and military support is already historic, but Zelensky’s comments indicate that both nations are prepared to deepen their commitment significantly. He stated that a Ukrainian delegation will be in the US in late September or early October for “practical implementation” of the new weapons purchase agreement, transforming the presidential-level understanding into tangible contracts and delivery schedules.
While Zelensky remained tight-lipped about the specific systems being sought, the emphasis on “long-range weapons” suggests a desire for missiles capable of striking high-value targets deep behind enemy lines. This would allow Ukraine to disrupt Russian logistics, command centers, and airbases more effectively than its current drone fleet allows, marking a qualitative upgrade in its offensive potential.
The partnership is also evolving to include American investment in Ukrainian technology. Zelensky revealed that discussions will soon begin for the US to purchase Ukrainian drones, a nod to the country’s proven innovation in unmanned systems. This two-way street of military trade underscores the maturity of the defense relationship between Kyiv and Washington.
These military negotiations are paralleled by economic ones. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko will travel to the US in October to discuss American investment projects under a joint fund. Meanwhile, the immediate defense needs are being addressed with the recent arrival of a Patriot air defense system from Israel and the expectation of two more, further solidifying Ukraine’s defensive shield against aerial bombardment.