President Zelensky, Trump Hold Second Call Focused On Strengthening Ukraine’s Defence

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Sunday that he had held a second phone conversation in two days with US President Donald Trump.

The Ukrainian leader described the discussion as ‘very productive’, adding that the two focused on strengthening Ukraine’s defence capabilities, particularly its long-range and air defence systems.

According to Zelensky, the leaders also discussed several ‘detailed and constructive’ points on energy security, as Ukraine continues to face Russian attacks on critical energy infrastructure.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular dialogue to coordinate future steps.

During their earlier conversation on Saturday, Zelensky informed Trump about recent Russian missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine’s power facilities.

The attacks forced emergency power outages across Kyiv and nine regions of the country.

Taking to X, Zelensky posted, “I informed President Trump about Russia’s attacks on our energy system—and I appreciate his willingness to support us.”

He added that the two leaders discussed practical measures to bolster Ukraine’s air defence and identified several ‘good options and solid ideas’ to improve protection against ongoing assaults.

The talks also covered potential agreements and collaborative initiatives aimed at ensuring Ukraine’s resilience through enhanced military cooperation.

Energy Security Amid Russian Strikes

Zelensky emphasised that the conversation included significant attention to Ukraine’s energy security.

Russia’s continued missile and drone strikes on power stations have strained Ukraine’s grid, leading to widespread blackouts.

The Ukrainian government has introduced emergency power cuts in multiple regions to stabilise the system and prevent further damage.

The President highlighted the need for urgent international support to rebuild and protect the country’s energy infrastructure, stressing that energy resilience is now directly tied to national defence.

The renewed dialogue between Zelensky and Trump comes as Ukraine seeks to consolidate international backing amid ongoing hostilities.

On 27 September, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the United Nations General Assembly that Moscow remains open to negotiations to end the war.

However, Kyiv continues to prioritise military readiness and defence capability expansion as part of its broader strategy to counter Russian aggression.

Zelensky noted that the ongoing discussions with international leaders, including Trump, are part of a wider effort to strengthen alliances and secure practical commitments for Ukraine’s long-term stability.

Both leaders agreed to continue their dialogue in the coming weeks, with the next round expected to include specific cooperation plans.

Zelensky expressed optimism about the outcomes of these talks, reiterating that if one conflict can be halted through diplomacy and strength, ‘other wars can be stopped as well — including the Russian war’.

As Ukraine braces for a challenging winter, the President reaffirmed his government’s commitment to defending its sovereignty while strengthening ties with key international partners.

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