The meeting between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump, held in Ankara on the sidelines of the NATO summit, marked a turning point in bilateral relations. According to Serhiy Kyslytsya, the First Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, this dialogue can be called one of the most successful in the entire history of interaction between the leaders of the two countries.
From the Oval Office to Ankara
In an interview with RBC-Ukraine, Kyslytsya noted that the path from the first meeting in the Oval Office to today's conversation was long but productive. The leaders spent about 45 minutes in an open dialogue in the presence of journalists, which indicates a mutual interest in the issues discussed. According to the Ukrainian side, the conversation was constructive and allowed for specific agreements to be reached.
Patriot Licenses: A Breakthrough in Security Issues
One of the key outcomes of the negotiations was the decision regarding Patriot air defense systems. While previously at the G7 summit Ukraine had only requested licenses for the production of these systems, it has now received a clear positive response from Washington. Trump confirmed the US readiness to transfer the right to produce Patriots to Ukraine, acknowledging that the process is technically complex but feasible.
A Signal to Moscow and the Role of the Summit
Kyslytsya emphasized that the very fact of holding such a meeting in Ankara, as well as the final declaration of the NATO summit, sent a powerful signal to Moscow. This demonstrates the unity of Western partners and their readiness to support Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
Peace Process and Escalation
Trump also touched upon the topic of a peace agreement, acknowledging that work on it continues, although the process remains difficult. He compared the war to "two people fighting in a park," emphasizing the need to find a way out of the conflict. At the same time, the American leader noted that Ukraine's long-range strikes on Russian territory could bring the war to an end, despite being considered an escalation.
Visit to Kyiv and Prospects
Separately, Trump announced his intention to visit Kyiv, although he admitted that such a visit is unlikely to be possible until the end of the war. Nevertheless, his words indicate the US readiness to continue active support for Ukraine, both militarily and diplomatically.
