U.S. weapons are essential for Ukraine’s survival - Zelenskyy

Ukraine’s Defense Forces are unable to fully protect the country’s airspace without American support, as Russia continues to use hundreds of drones and missiles, while Ukraine’s air defense capabilities remain insufficient.

“Without U.S. support, we won’t be able to protect the sky. Even now, it is extremely difficult,” he said.

Zelenskyy stressed that U.S. assistance in air defense is crucial.

“We are also using American weapons on the front lines," he added.

"Without this, we will not be able to win.”

On Dec. 18, U.S. President Donald Trump signed the U.S. defense budget for fiscal year 2026, which includes funding for Ukraine. The total amount of support allocated is $800 million, with $400 million earmarked for 2026 and another $400 million for 2027.

On Dec. 8, Trump claimed that during his presidency the United States was not spending money on supporting Ukraine in the war against Russia and was, in fact, making a profit.

On Dec. 28, the presidents of Ukraine and the United States met in Florida to discuss the parameters of a potential peace plan. Following the talks, Zelenskyy said that the 20-point plan was about 90% agreed, U.S. security guarantees were fully agreed, and security guarantees in the U.S.–Europe–Ukraine format were nearly finalized, while Ukraine’s reconstruction plan remains in the final stages of preparation.