Kyiv, Washington in talks on licensing air protection manufacturing in Ukraine, Zelensky says

Ukraine is negotiating with the U.S. to acquire licenses to fabricate air protection techniques and missiles on its territory, President Volodymyr Zelensky mentioned on Jan. 9.

Zelensky made this assertion on the opening of the twenty fifth Ramstein summit, which was devoted to strengthening Ukraine's defenses, significantly its air protection. This summit would be the final gathering on this format earlier than U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes workplace on Jan. 20.

"We’re speaking to the U.S. about licensing air protection techniques and missile manufacturing right here in Ukraine. And this might turn out to be a big a part of our safety ensures. And it’s completely doable to do it," Zelensky mentioned.

Zelensky talked about the Russian Jan. 8 assault on Zaporizhzhia, which killed 13 folks and injured greater than 100, and known as for added air protection techniques for Ukraine.

"That is simply someday, only one assault, only one air strike. We have to cease the Russian terror. And you are able to do it. We ask for fast supply of air protection techniques," the president mentioned.

In December 2024, Zelensky mentioned he had repeatedly requested the U.S. to supply licenses to supply Patriot techniques in Ukraine however had not acquired permission.

"I’ve requested the U.S. many occasions to grant licenses for the manufacturing of the Patriot (air protection system). Nobody appeared to thoughts. Nobody has ever instructed me: 'No, we received't offer you one.' However to date, we have now not acquired something," Zelensky instructed Le Parisien on Dec. 18.

The president added that within the three years of conflict, Ukraine has not but acquired the variety of air protection techniques it must defend itself towards Russia.

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