Zelensky Describes ‘Productive’ Call with Trump Ahead of Ceasefire Deadline

Ukraine President Welcomes U.S. Support on Sanctions, Drones, and Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed that he had a “productive” and strategic conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, focused on ending the war with Russia, strengthening sanctions, and finalizing a major drone deal. The dialogue comes just days before Trump’s August 8 ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to peace or face tougher U.S. sanctions.

In a statement posted on X, Zelensky noted that President Trump is “fully informed about Russian strikes on Kyiv and other communities,” referencing the surge in drone and missile attacks across Ukraine. Trump’s administration has recently taken a firmer stance against Moscow, signaling frustration over continued aggression.

U.S.-Russia Tensions Intensify as Ceasefire Deadline Looms

According to U.S. sources, envoy Steve Witkoff is expected to meet with the Russian leadership in Moscow ahead of the ceasefire deadline. Trump has warned of new sanctions and potential 100% tariffs on nations that continue purchasing Russian oil if Moscow fails to halt military operations.

In his nightly address, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine had supported U.S. ceasefire proposals and had submitted plans to halt hostilities, including “quiet in the skies” — a call to end missile and drone attacks, especially those targeting civilian and energy infrastructure.

“These proposals have been ignored and violated by the Russians in a very cynical fashion,” Zelensky stated.

$30 Billion U.S.-Ukraine Drone Deal in the Works

Zelensky also confirmed that negotiations with the U.S. are ongoing over a landmark drone deal estimated to be worth $30 billion. The agreement is expected to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities and support the growth of its domestic arms industry, which is becoming increasingly important amid continued conflict.

Additionally, Ukraine’s European allies have pledged over $1 billion in U.S.-made weapons under a new cooperative framework designed to bolster Ukraine’s military resilience.

As the ceasefire deadline approaches, all eyes are on Moscow’s response to mounting international pressure and Trump’s hardline stance. Whether diplomacy will prevail or sanctions will escalate remains to be seen in the coming days.

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