Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Sweden on Wednesday for talks with Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Linköping, the base of Saab’s Gripen fighter production.

The trip, focused on advancing a potential fighter jet deal, came as Russia launched a deadly overnight barrage on Kyiv, killing at least three civilians and injuring dozens.

Gripen Talks and Defence Cooperation

Sweden confirmed that Kristersson and Zelensky would hold a joint press conference to announce “a measure in the area of defence export.”

Stockholm, which paused the Gripen transfer last year to prioritize F-16 training, is now reconsidering. “A strong and capable Ukraine is a key priority for Sweden,” Kristersson wrote on X.

The talks highlight Kyiv’s push to secure modern Western jets, complementing France’s Mirage 2000-5s and deepening defence cooperation with Europe.

Russian Strikes Devastate Kyiv

While Zelensky held meetings in Sweden, Russia carried out large-scale missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. In Kyiv’s Dnipro and Darnytskyi districts, residential buildings caught fire after debris from downed drones struck upper floors, killing civilians and trapping others.

Mayor Vitali Klitschko said more than 20 people were rescued from damaged sites as explosions rocked multiple neighbourhoods. Similar strikes hit Zaporizhzhia and the southern port of Izmail.

Push for Air Defence and Long-Range Weapons

Zelensky said Ukraine is preparing to purchase 25 Patriot air-defence systems with support from partners and frozen Russian assets, though deliveries could take time.

He also urged Western allies to speed up the supply of long-range missiles. “We need to end this war, and only pressure will lead to peace,” Zelensky said.