Zelenskyy Outlines Defense and Peace Efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held discussions on air defense cooperation, diplomatic efforts and sanctions against Russia in a series of meetings and statements published July 22 on the official presidential website.

During talks with the U.S. ambassador to NATO, Zelenskyy reviewed the results of the NATO Summit in Ankara and plans to strengthen Ukraine’s air defenses. The discussions included agreements allowing the production of missiles for Patriot air-defense systems, according to the presidential office.

Zelenskyy also spoke by telephone with U.S. presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The Ukrainian negotiating team, including Rustem Umerov, Kyrylo Budanov and Sergiy Kyslytsya, took part in the call, which focused on reinvigorating diplomacy and advancing efforts toward peace.

In a separate address, Zelenskyy called for increased pressure on Russia through tougher sanctions, long-range sanctions measures and military action. He said Ukraine remained committed to ending the war while protecting its national interests and maintaining strong positions on the battlefield.