KYIV, Thursday, 11 September 2025 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held talks with US presidential envoy Keith Kellogg during his visit to Kyiv. The meeting focused on Ukraine’s urgent request for Patriot air defence systems, bilateral drone production, and broader cooperation to secure peace and stability. This was reported by The WP Times, citing Zelensky’s remarks on Facebook.
Security cooperation between Ukraine and the US
The leaders discussed projects under the PURL initiative, which foresees European-financed purchases of US weapons, including Patriot missile systems. They also examined prospects for joint production of drones and other defence technologies. Zelensky voiced hope for a positive US response to these proposals, stressing that stronger bilateral agreements were essential for long-term security.
Pressure on Russia and sanctions
Another major point of discussion was tightening economic and tariff-based sanctions on Russia. According to Zelensky, a trilateral format of cooperation between Kyiv, Washington and European partners remains the most effective way to accelerate high-level talks and bring an end to the war.
Return of abducted Ukrainian children
Zelensky also raised the issue of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia, underlining the need for stronger international cooperation. He emphasised that ensuring the safe return of these children remains one of Ukraine’s humanitarian priorities.
Condolences over Charlie Kirk’s death
During the meeting, Zelensky expressed condolences to the American people following the killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk in Utah. He also thanked US President Donald Trump for his solidarity over the murder of Ukrainian-born Irina Zarutska in North Carolina. “It is vital that justice prevails whenever violence tries to dominate,” Zelensky stressed.
Preparing for the UN General Assembly
The upcoming 80th session of the UN General Assembly in New York was another subject of coordination. Zelensky said that Ukraine and the US will continue to work closely within the “coalition of the resolute” to keep the war and its consequences at the top of the global agenda.
Kellogg’s visit
Kellogg arrived in Ukraine on 11 September after first being scheduled to visit Poland on behalf of President Trump. According to CNN, the Polish leg of the trip coincided with a wave of Russian drone attacks on Polish territory.
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