Zelenskyy: Security Guarantees, Defense Investment Key Ahead of US-Russia Summit

BERLIN – bUkrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Thursday that security guarantees and investment in Ukraine’s defense industry are key priorities as he held talks with European leaders ahead of Friday’s US-Russia summit in Alaska. Speaking after discussions in Berlin—joined by most European leaders via teleconference—he noted that expectations for the summit and sustainable peace prospects were central topics. He emphasized that coalition-based cooperation is essential to securing lasting security guarantees for Ukraine.

Zelenskyy also underscored the need to continue programs supporting the Ukrainian army and domestic defense production, stressing that Ukraine will “remain in force” under any circumstances. He discussed arms supply routes with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, including the PURL program, and invited Britain to join further cooperation efforts. The Ukrainian leader confirmed that Kyiv is preparing to ratify the UK-Ukraine 100-Year Partnership Declaration, paving the way for an expanded bilateral meeting once ratified.

Highlighting drones as a critical battlefield asset, Zelenskyy said Ukraine has “extraordinary” potential to boost production and called for urgent financing to increase output. He argued that investment in drone manufacturing could have a strategic impact on the conflict’s outcome. The UK-Ukraine 100-Year Partnership Declaration, signed in January, includes provisions for developing and deploying drones. The US-Russia summit in Alaska will bring together US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.