Nearly a year ago, Ukraine presented a significant proposal to the United States for a comprehensive drone agreement valued at up to $50 billion. This initiative aims to facilitate the export of Ukrainian technology and the joint production of drones, yet a formal decision from the U.S. remains pending.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky outlined plans to establish an export framework covering various sectors, including drones, artificial intelligence technologies, and electronic warfare systems. In exchange, Ukraine seeks financial support and defensive measures against ballistic missiles, which are currently in short supply.
“Our proposal was that we could provide a system, and the United States should be the first to engage, as they significantly support us with weaponry against ballistic threats and are a strategic partner for Ukraine. This is why we proposed the drone agreement to the United States,” Zelensky explained.
He noted that former U.S. President Donald Trump, along with military officials, expressed interest in the initiative, emphasizing that there had never been a suggestion that Washington was disinterested.
“I do not know the extent of what the United States will want. If we have available and operational capacities, we will proceed, as it benefits our exports. I have never heard that the United States is uninterested,” he added.
Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine offers a robust production and operational system for drones, capable of involving up to 200 companies. “The choice will be made by the United States. They can select from various interceptors today, and another company with new technology tomorrow; flexibility is essential,” he stated.
Additionally, Ukraine is open to establishing joint ventures on a 50/50 basis, where both Ukrainian and American engineers would collaborate, making the drones accessible to both nations.
“The U.S. will gain access to our technologies. Our enterprises will increase production volumes. Half of the output will support our front lines, which should suffice. The other half, currently limited by financial constraints, will be directed to our partners,” Zelensky clarified.
Despite the proposal, no agreement has yet been signed between Ukraine and the U.S. The reasons for this delay remain unclear. Meanwhile, interest from various other countries has emerged.
“We have engaged with European nations regarding drones, and agreements are already in place. We have received specific inquiries from the Middle East and Gulf countries, along with substantial proposals. Offers have also come from Africa and several other regions,” Zelensky noted.
The agreement has been valued between $35 billion and $50 billion, representing a long-term commitment. Ukraine is prepared to explore discussions not only with the U.S. but also with other nations.
“We aimed to maintain relations with Americans and Europeans and demonstrate our priorities. The situation with the drone agreement reflects this. As you can see, we have initiated production lines in Germany, which are operational. New efforts have just begun in the United Kingdom, and we also have production in Denmark. This marks a promising start to new defense partnerships,” Zelensky concluded.
Ukraine's proposed drone agreement with the U.S. seeks to bolster military support amid ongoing needs, yet it remains unsigned. The initiative has garnered interest from various countries, indicating a broader geopolitical landscape.