Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Kyiv has decided not to publicly discuss long-range missile systems, citing U.S. concerns over potential escalation with Russia. “We decided that for now we will not publicly talk about long-range missiles, as the U.S. does not want escalation,” Zelensky stated in remarks after meeting U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.

He added that Russian forces “fear Tomahawks,” calling the U.S.-made cruise missiles a “strong weapon.” Zelensky said Russia is also wary of Ukraine’s growing domestic weapons production, describing the combination as something “they fear.”

On Relations With Putin and Trump’s Peace Remarks

Zelensky spoke candidly about his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “Putin hates me. I have the same attitude to this man.” When asked whether he is optimistic about receiving Tomahawk missiles, Zelensky replied simply: “I am realistic.”

In another comment that drew attention, Zelensky appeared to align with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent statement that fighting should pause to allow for negotiations. “We have to stop where we are now. Trump is right,” he said. “And then start talking about how to take steps towards long-term peace.”