Putin, Patriots and Drones: Key Takeaways from Zelensky and Rutte

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Mark Rutte held a joint press conference focused on the war in Ukraine, international defense assistance, and coordination with partner countries. The leaders also addressed prospects for strengthening Ukraine’s air defenses, deepening military cooperation, and increasing pressure on Russia.

Zelenskyy said he was ready for direct talks with Vladimir Putin to end the war. According to him, Ukraine is ready to start such a dialogue now and does not want to wait for the US to resolve all other international conflicts.

The president also reported that six countries have already confirmed their participation in the PURL program. In addition, Ukraine annually allocates from 45 to 50 billion dollars to the production of various types of weapons.

Separately, Zelenskyy spoke about the training of Ukrainian specialists to work with partners in Estonia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Romania. They will help the local military counter Russian drones.

In turn, Mark Rutte stated that PAC-2 and PAC-3 missiles for Patriot systems continue to arrive in Ukraine from the United States. According to him, deliveries continue on a regular basis.

Recall that NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte arrived in Ukraine on Wednesday, June 3.