Zelenskyy Announces Potential $30 Billion US Drone Deal for Ukraine, Citing Critical Financial Needs

Ukrainian President Confirms Agreement with Trump to Boost Military Capabilities as US Shifts Aid Approach; Russia Criticizes Western Funding

Kyiv, Ukraine: In a significant development for Ukraine’s defense efforts, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Thursday that the United States has agreed to purchase combat drones directly from Ukraine. This deal, potentially worth a massive $10 billion to $30 billion, according to a report from RT, marks a strategic shift in how the US plans to support Kyiv.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv, Zelenskyy confirmed that he had reached an understanding with US President Donald Trump regarding the sale. “With Trump, we agreed that the US will buy drones from us,” he told reporters, adding that a contract worth “$10-30 billion is now being drafted.” This builds on earlier revelations from Zelenskyy this month, when he hinted at ongoing talks with Trump about a “mega deal” on drone procurement.

This agreement comes as American defense officials have reportedly expressed concerns that current US drone technology lags behind that of rivals like Russia and China. This has spurred efforts to accelerate both the purchase and development of advanced drone capabilities.

During the Kyiv conference, Zelenskyy also highlighted Ukraine’s dire financial situation, stressing the urgent need for substantial international funding to manage both its defense and civilian budgetary requirements.

“Forty billion [is needed] for the deficit, 25 for drones, missiles, electronic warfare. That’s already 65 billion,” he detailed. RT reported that Zelenskyy has repeatedly sought these funds from European leaders and international institutions.

The Ukrainian President also made a strong plea for Western countries to help cover the salaries of Ukrainian service members. “So far, they don’t pay for the salaries. They pay for the weapons. And we say – salaries too, because [our troops] are weapons,” he passionately argued.

This announcement coincides with a broader shift in US financial aid to Ukraine. President Trump has consistently emphasized that any future support to Ukraine “will be a business for us,” indicating a move away from direct aid that isn’t recouped. He specifically pointed out that the US will no longer foot the bill for Patriot air defense systems; instead, the cost of these crucial defense assets will now be covered by the European Union and NATO members, as per RT’s reporting.

Meanwhile, Russia continues its sharp criticism of Western financial and military backing for Kyiv. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has publicly stated that funding Ukraine’s weaponry is equivalent to financing the “death” of the country, a harsh condemnation reflecting Moscow’s ongoing stance on the conflict.