United to win: Zelensky suggests joint production of weapons with US

On October 16, President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone conversation with United States President Joseph Biden, during which he proposed exploring the option of collaborating on weapon production.

Zelensky announced this on Telegram.

The countries' leaders also discussed the importance of additional training for Ukrainian service members. Particular attention was paid to the upcoming online meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group in the Ramstein format.

Zelensky updated Biden on his speech to the Ukrainian parliament, where the Victory Plan received widespread endorsement from all parliamentary parties and groups. The Plan will be formally presented at a Council of Europe meeting this Thursday.

During the talks, the president also expressed gratitude to the US for its steadfast support of Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion by Russian troops. He emphasized that Biden's leadership in unifying the world and the strong bipartisan support of the States were crucial and helped Ukraine to stand up and protect its independence.

Separately, Zelensky thanked the US president, both parties of Congress and the American people for the new defense package worth $425 million.

"We continue to work with partners on implementing the Peace Formula," the head of state said.

The President's Office added that the leaders also discussed the possibility of providing Ukraine with more air defense systems. Zelensky called for speeding up this process.

The issues of increasing the level of defense cooperation in the coming months and strengthening sanctions against Russia were also raised. Zelensky noted the United States' readiness to significantly strengthen Ukraine's position.

The conversation also focused on the work of the Ukrainian and American teams on the Victory Plan.

"We are grateful to America for understanding our needs and supporting the strengthening of Ukraine to force Russia to engage in honest diplomacy," Zelensky said.

For reference:

On October 16, Biden announced the distribution of a fresh aid package totaling 425 million dollars for Ukraine's security. This package encompasses air defense gear, ammunition, military equipment, and other weaponry.