Ukraine seeks Strengthened Air Defense Following Russian Energy Infrastructure Attacks, Discusses Tomahawk Missiles with Trump
Following a recent wave of Russian attacks targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a phone conversation with former U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities. The call, described by Zelenskyy as “very positive and productive,” came after Friday’s extensive Russian strikes which caused power outages across several Ukrainian regions.
The two leaders specifically discussed potential avenues for strengthening Ukrainian air defense, and identified concrete steps to achieve this goal. According to a report by Axios, citing sources familiar with the approximately 30-minute conversation, the discussion also included the possibility of the U.S. providing Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine.
The potential delivery of Tomahawk missiles, which would enable Ukraine to strike deeper into Russian territory, has drawn a warning from Moscow. Russian officials have stated that such a move would escalate the conflict and severely damage relations with Washington. Kiev, however, believes that the potential delivery – not necessarily the use – of thes missiles could compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in negotiations.
Trump reportedly stated he wants to fully understand how the missiles would be utilized before making a decision on their delivery, citing a desire to avoid further escalation.Tho, Axios sources indicated he has already “decided” on the matter, though a final decision from the U.S. has not been confirmed.
Beyond security concerns, Zelenskyy also congratulated Trump on the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas regarding Gaza, describing it as an “remarkable achievement.” he expressed optimism that if peace can be achieved in one conflict zone, it is possible to resolve others, including the war in Ukraine.
Zelenskyy also thanked the white House chief of staff for his willingness to support Ukraine, noting “solid ideas on the table” regarding air defense strengthening. He emphasized the need for Russia to demonstrate a willingness to engage in genuine diplomacy, which he believes can be achieved through continued pressure.
Neither the White House nor Trump have publicly commented on the specifics of the phone call.
The leaders last met in September during the UN General Assembly in new York, where Trump indicated Ukraine could potentially regain all of its territory – a statement interpreted by observers as a shift in his stance on the conflict.
Looking ahead, a Ukrainian delegation led by Prime Minister Julia Svyrydenkova is scheduled to visit the United States early next week to discuss air defense, energy security, and further anti-Russian sanctions with U.S. officials.
(TASR)
