WASHINGTON (CHATNEWSTV) — President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed efforts to end the war in Ukraine and bolster defense cooperation during a call Wednesday, U.S. officials said.
In a joint statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Michael Waltz described the conversation as “fantastic,” highlighting Trump’s efforts to negotiate a ceasefire and provide military support to Kyiv.
Zelenskyy thanked Trump for the United States’ continued assistance, including Javelin missiles, which Trump was “first to provide,” and emphasized the importance of U.S. leadership in securing peace.
Trump briefed Zelenskyy on his recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, the statement said. The two leaders reviewed the situation in Kursk and agreed to enhance intelligence-sharing between their defense staffs. Zelenskyy requested additional air defense systems, including Patriot missile batteries, and Trump pledged to explore options, particularly in Europe.
The leaders also agreed on a partial ceasefire covering energy infrastructure, with technical teams set to meet in Saudi Arabia to discuss expanding the agreement to the Black Sea. “This could be the first step toward a full ceasefire and lasting security,” the statement said.
Trump also raised concerns over Ukraine’s electrical grid and nuclear power plants, suggesting U.S. involvement in managing the facilities. “American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure,” the statement read.
Humanitarian issues were also discussed, including prisoner exchanges and the return of Ukrainian children abducted during the war. Trump assured Zelenskyy of continued U.S. support in those efforts.
Both leaders directed their teams—led by Rubio, Waltz, and Special Envoy Keith Kellogg—to accelerate negotiations toward a broader ceasefire. “The Presidents emphasized the importance of moving quickly to ensure lasting peace and security,” the statement concluded.
