US and Ukraine evaluate comprehensive drone deal

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy spoke to reporters about his meeting with US President Donald Trump regarding the import of Ukrainian-made drones to the US. In an interview with the US press yesterday, Zelenskyy stated that his latest meeting with the US President focused on an agreement that would help strengthen the air technology of both countries. The Ukrainian leader described the deal as a "win-win" type of "mega-deal."

"THE AMERICAN PEOPLE NEED TO HAVE THIS TECHNOLOGY"

Stating that drones are key weapons that have enabled Ukraine to resist Russian attacks for over 3 years, Zelenskyy spoke highly of Ukrainian-made drones capable of hitting targets 1,300 kilometers from the Russian border. The Ukrainian leader said, "The American people need to have this technology. It needs to be in your arsenal. We have also held talks with Denmark, Norway, and Germany regarding Ukrainian-made drones. We are ready to share this experience with the US and other European partners."

In reports in the US press regarding the deal, it was stated, "A deal with Ukraine could be transformative for the US military and the country's national security. Experts point out that US drone technology has fallen behind Russia and China, and that US soldiers lack proficiency in the effective use of drones and in protecting themselves against enemy devices."

"DEALS WITH THE US WILL MOVE UKRAINE TO A STRONGER POSITION"

Zelenskiy had also said in his speech today before the vote in the Ukrainian parliament, where the new government led by Yulia Svyrydenko received a vote of confidence, that future agreements his country will make with the US will move Ukraine to a stronger position.

INCENTIVE FOR DRONE PRODUCTION FROM THE US

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth also recently issued a directive aimed at removing bureaucratic obstacles to US drone production, noting that as drone production increases rapidly worldwide, the US must be able to maintain competitiveness in this field. The US defense and national security budget set for the coming year includes provisions for increased spending on small-scale drones.

News Source: İHA