**Ukraine and US in Talks Over ‘Mega Deal’ on Drone and Weapon Sales**
In a move that could change the game for both countries, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has revealed plans to discuss a major agreement with his American counterpart, Donald Trump. The proposed deal would see the United States purchase American-made weapons from Ukraine in exchange for the sale of cutting-edge drones.
According to an interview published on July 17 by the New York Post, Zelensky believes this partnership would be a “mega deal” that benefits both parties. He cited the success of Ukraine’s drones in destroying Russian heavy bombers as proof of their effectiveness and potential value to the US military.
The agreement would not only involve the exchange of drones and weapons but also see the two countries collaborate on aviation and unmanned systems development. This collaboration would grant Ukraine access to a wide range of American-made weapons, while the US would gain expertise from Ukraine in drone technology.
**A Strategic Move by Trump**
This proposal aligns with President Trump’s evolving military strategy, which prioritizes drones and long-range missiles over traditional naval and aerial assets. His draft defense budget for fiscal year 2026 reflects this shift, focusing on technologies that can provide a strategic advantage on the battlefield.
**Ukraine’s Drone Production Boom**
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine has invested heavily in expanding its drone production capabilities across all domains – air, land, and sea. The country plans to manufacture 30,000 long-range drones by 2025, with its hybrid strike platforms, such as the Palianytsia and Peklo missile-drones, generating significant interest globally.
One notable example of Ukraine’s prowess in drone technology was demonstrated on June 1, when it carried out an unprecedented FPV (first-person view) drone strike against four Russian air bases deep inside Russia. This operation showcased the effectiveness and precision of Ukrainian drones, further highlighting their potential value to the US military.
**A Win-Win Situation?**
While the details of this proposed deal are still unclear, Zelensky’s enthusiasm for the partnership is evident. He sees it as a “win-win” situation that would benefit both Ukraine and the United States. As the world continues to evolve in terms of military strategy and technology, this potential agreement between two nations could mark a significant turning point in their respective defense capabilities.
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