President Donald Trump expressed “disappointment” after his call with Vladimir Putin, who reportedly refused to make concessions, signaling a diplomatic impasse. This comes as Ukraine is actively seeking new pathways for military aid, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussing “mutual purchases and investments” with Trump following a reported halt in US munitions shipments. The urgency is amplified by a record-breaking Russian aerial assault on Kyiv.

The US has reportedly paused its latest shipment of crucial munitions, including Patriot air defense missiles, due to concerns over its own military stockpiles. Zelenskyy’s “good conversation” with Trump focused on bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and exploring joint defense production, aiming to incentivize the Trump administration to resume vital aid.

The timing of the record Russian strike on Kyiv, immediately following Trump’s “disappointing” call with Vladimir Putin, was starkly interpreted by Zelenskyy as Moscow’s aggressive response to diplomatic overtures. This reinforces the persistent threat and the critical importance of continuous and robust air protection for Ukrainian cities.

As US aid remains on hold, Germany is now reportedly in “intensive talks” to acquire Patriot missile systems for Ukraine. This proactive European move demonstrates a commitment to addressing Ukraine’s immediate defensive needs and ensuring it has the means to counter the escalating aerial threat.