Zelensky Urges Trump for Patriot Missile Production License Amid Ukraine's Defense Needs

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss strengthening Kyiv's missile defense systems amid ongoing conflict with Russia. Zelensky is expected to request a license to produce Patriot interceptor missiles in Ukraine, a move Trump had previously supported earlier this month. The supply of Patriot missiles remains limited due to concurrent conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.

The visit comes at a critical phase of the war, with Moscow reporting extensive drone attacks. Recently, Ukrainian forces targeted an Iranian cargo ship in the Caspian Sea, accusing Iran of being a direct partner in Russia's aggression. Ukrainian intelligence claims Russia shared satellite images with Tehran, enabling Iranian strikes on U.S. and Gulf military facilities.

Trump responded to these allegations by stating he would verify the claims and consult with Russian President Vladimir Putin but downplayed their impact if confirmed. Meanwhile, Moscow reported over 390 Ukrainian drones targeted the city between Monday evening and Tuesday morning, with most intercepted by air defenses. Russian President Putin condemned what he called "terror tactics" by enemies but vowed Russia would achieve its objectives.

Additionally, Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, an ally of Russia, called for a ceasefire and a return to the "Istanbul Formula 2.0" peace talks over the weekend.