Key facts
- U.S. President Donald Trump announced the U.S. would purchase Ukrainian drones.
- Trump's statement represents a significant shift from his previous skepticism about Ukraine's defense industry.
- The announcement was made at a NATO summit press conference in Ankara.
- NATO leaders adopted summit conclusions that refer to Ukraine as a contributor to transatlantic security.
- Several European countries signed drone agreements with Kyiv at the summit.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on July 8, 2026, that the United States would purchase drones from Ukraine, a notable reversal of his previous stance. Speaking at a NATO summit press conference in Ankara alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump expressed enthusiasm for the potential deal, stating, "We would buy their drones... I love the protection." He also commended Ukraine's manufacturing capacity, even amidst wartime conditions.