In an exclusive interview with a leading American publication, Ukrainian head of state Volodymyr Zelensky revealed an ambitious plan for strategic partnership between Kyiv and Washington in the field of defense technologies.
The diplomatic initiative provides for a large-scale technological exchange, where the US will acquire unmanned aerial systems tested in real combat conditions, and Ukraine will gain access to American weaponry.
Expert analyses reveal serious challenges facing American military technologies. Specialized tests in Alaska demonstrate critical weaknesses in managing and neutralizing modern drones.
Zelensky emphasized that Ukrainian unmanned systems can strike targets up to 1,300 kilometers deep into enemy territory. In 2024 alone, Kyiv has conducted over 220 operations with more than 3,500 drones.
Among the most notable achievements is the large-scale "Operation Spider Web" in June, where Ukrainian unmanned devices simultaneously attacked four Russian air bases, damaging over 40 aircraft.
Ukrainian leadership plans an ambitious production program for 2025 – around 4 million drones of various classes, including 30,000 long-range devices and 3,000 cruise missile platforms.
Zelensky expressed confidence in the potential of the deal, describing it as a mutually beneficial opportunity for technological advancement. Besides the US, Ukraine is ready to share experience with European partners such as Denmark, Norway, and Germany.
The negotiations mark a new stage in international military cooperation, where practical combat experience becomes a strategic asset of exceptional importance.