Zelensky, Trump Talk Air Defense Boost for Kyiv | Latest Ukraine News 12 October 2025

Zelensky, Trump Talk Air Defense Boost for Kyiv

12 October 2025 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held a detailed phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on strengthening Kyiv’s air defense amid continued Russian aggression.
Zelensky announced on X that this was their second discussion in two days, aimed at enhancing long-term defense cooperation between Ukraine and the United States.

According to Zelensky, both leaders discussed air defense systems, stability measures, and long-range strike capabilities. They also talked about Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and broader security challenges affecting the nation’s resilience during the ongoing war.

Sources familiar with the talks revealed that President Trump expressed caution over approving the delivery of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. He reportedly emphasized the need to ensure responsible use of such weapons to avoid any escalation of the conflict with Russia.

Moscow reacted sharply, warning that if the United States proceeds with transferring Tomahawk missiles, the situation could “enter a dangerous new phase.”
Russian officials called the talks “provocative,” claiming they threaten the strategic balance of power in Eastern Europe.

Analysts believe this conversation reflects Kyiv’s determination to gain defensive superiority over Russian aerial and missile operations. They note that Ukraine is preparing to modernize its air defense network to better protect cities and vital infrastructure.

Meanwhile, Russia’s recent airstrikes have targeted Ukraine’s energy grid, causing widespread blackouts in several regions. Zelensky told Trump that Moscow launched dozens of drone and missile attacks in recent days, striking energy facilities and disrupting the national power supply.

If the U.S. approves the delivery of long-range Tomahawk missiles, Ukraine could gain the ability to strike deep inside Russian territory, significantly boosting its deterrence capacity. However, analysts warn that such a move might also heighten tensions, potentially prompting a strong response from Moscow.

Zelensky also urged Trump to use the momentum from the Gaza ceasefire to promote peace initiatives in Ukraine, stressing that global stability requires coordinated diplomatic efforts among world powers.

Experts say the 12 October 2025 discussion could mark a turning point in Ukraine’s defense strategy.
The outcome will depend on President Trump’s next steps, Russia’s reaction, and how global powers manage the shifting geopolitical landscape.