Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is expected to press U.S. President Donald Trump in a Friday call over the recent pause in American weapons deliveries, as Ukraine faces its deadliest wave of Russian airstrikes in months. Kyiv was blindsided by the Pentagon's decision to suspend shipments of critical defense systems, prompting concern over U.S. reliability and fears of eroding Western support.

Weapons Withheld as Russia Intensifies Attacks

The Pentagon halted deliveries of Patriot interceptors, Stinger systems, F-16 and NASAMS munitions, as well as guided artillery shells and over 100 Hellfire missiles. Some of these weapons are reportedly being held in Poland. Trump’s administration cited a “capability review” of U.S. stockpiles, though critics call it a politically driven decision.

Zelenskyy, speaking after meetings with his defense and foreign ministers, said Ukraine is “clarifying all the details of the defense support” and must “ensure protection for our people.” Ukrainian officials said the freeze is alarming as Russia launched more than 330 missiles—including 80 ballistic—and 10,000 drones and bombs in June alone.

Kyiv Seeks Guarantees and Future Arms Deals

Zelenskyy intends to raise not only the current freeze but also future procurement plans, including a $15 billion proposal to purchase 10 Patriot air defense systems from the U.S. Trump has previously said he would consider such sales, though he warned of low stock levels during last month’s NATO summit in The Hague, where he met Zelenskyy for what he called a “very nice” exchange.

Zelenskyy’s government also summoned a senior U.S. diplomat to underline the urgency, warning that any delays “encourage the aggressor.” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha emphasized that halting support undermines Kyiv’s ability to defend itself and deters future negotiations.

International Reaction and Drone Deal with U.S. Firm

European leaders reacted cautiously. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte acknowledged the U.S. must manage its reserves but warned Ukraine “cannot do without all the support it can get.” European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called the freeze “a clear signal to step up” EU defense efforts.

During a stop in Denmark, Zelenskyy announced a new deal with U.S. firm Swift Beat to co-produce drones in Ukraine, with the goal of deploying hundreds of thousands by next year. The drones will target Russian aerial threats amid shrinking Western ammunition deliveries.

Trump’s Diplomatic Balancing Act

Trump will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, one day before the Zelenskyy call. He has stated he’s committed to brokering a ceasefire but warned he may “walk away” if neither party shows seriousness. U.S. aid for Ukraine is set to expire later this summer, and Trump has resisted backing any long-term U.S. security guarantees for Kyiv.

With Trump seeking to position himself as a mediator between Moscow and Kyiv, Zelenskyy’s Friday call could prove pivotal for Ukraine’s battlefield readiness—and the West’s unity.