ISTANBUL 

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had a “very important and fruitful” phone call with US President Donald Trump on Friday, congratulating him on the US Independence Day while discussing battlefield developments, air defense, and joint military production.

“We – in Ukraine – are grateful for all the support provided. It helps us protect lives, safeguard our freedom and independence,” Zelenskyy said on X. “We support all efforts to stop the killings and restore just, lasting, and dignified peace. A noble agreement for peace is needed.”

The two leaders discussed recent Russian airstrikes and frontline developments. “President Trump is very well informed, and I thank him for his attention to Ukraine,” he added, saying that they agreed to work together on strengthening Ukraine’s air defense and hold a meeting between their teams.

Zelenskyy said their call also covered joint production and defense industry cooperation, particularly of drones and related technologies.

“We are ready for direct projects with the United States,” he said, calling these “critically important” for security.

They also touched on mutual procurement, investment, and the broader diplomatic situation with US and international partners.

The call came a day after Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he voiced disappointment over the lack of progress on ending the war.

The Kremlin said it took Trump’s remarks seriously, with spokesman Dmitry Peskov stating that Putin explained Russia would continue its military campaign in Ukraine due to the absence of meaningful diplomatic breakthroughs.