Former U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced support for providing Ukraine with additional Patriot missile systems to bolster its defence, following a phone conversation on Friday with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump’s remarks come amid escalating Russian airstrikes and growing international concern over Moscow’s ongoing military campaign. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump described his call with Zelensky as “good” and acknowledged Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defences.
“They’re going to need them for defence… They’re being hit pretty hard,” Trump said, referring to Ukraine’s repeated requests for more U.S.-made Patriot missile systems. He called the missile system “pretty amazing” and warned that Ukraine was in a “very tough situation.”
Trump also expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, accusing him of showing no willingness to end the war. “I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin. He wants to go all the way, just keep killing people – it’s no good,” he said.
Following the conversation, President Zelensky confirmed on Telegram that the two leaders had agreed to enhance Ukraine’s air defence capabilities. He said the discussion covered joint defence production, military procurement, and potential investment in Ukraine’s defence sector.
Ukraine has continued to urge Washington to resume shipments of Patriot systems, citing their critical role in protecting cities from Russian missile and drone attacks. The Biden administration’s recent pause in some weapons deliveries has raised alarm in Kyiv, with officials warning that delays could weaken their ability to hold off Russian advances.
Germany has since announced talks to procure more Patriot missile systems to help fill the supply gap.
A source familiar with the Trump-Zelensky conversation told Reuters the exchange was “very good” and expressed hope that the supply of Patriot systems may resume soon.
Meanwhile, Russia has intensified its attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure and urban centres, with President Putin showing no signs of backing down despite mounting diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict.
As the war enters its third year, Ukraine and its allies are increasingly concerned that further delays in military aid could tip the balance on the battlefield, particularly as Russia pushes forward with its summer offensive.
