Zelensky and Trump Hold Second Phone Call in Two Days: Focus on Defense and Energy Cooperation

KIEV, (Xinhua) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Sunday that he had held a second phone conversation in just two days with former U.S. President Donald Trump, a move that highlights the growing dialogue between Kyiv and Washington amid ongoing security challenges and geopolitical shifts in Eastern Europe.

According to President Zelensky, the discussion was “very productive,” focusing on strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities, particularly long-range defense systems and broader military cooperation. The two leaders also discussed ways to bolster Ukraine’s resilience in the face of continuing regional threats and the importance of maintaining strong defense ties between Kyiv and Washington.

Zelensky noted that both sides exchanged views on energy security, a topic that remains central to Ukraine’s national strategy as the country seeks to reduce dependency on external energy sources and enhance self-sufficiency. “We talked about many details on energy cooperation,” Zelensky said, emphasizing that Ukraine aims to expand partnerships that can support the stability of its power sector and strengthen its infrastructure against potential disruptions.

While details of the conversation were not fully disclosed, sources close to the Ukrainian government have indicated that the talks may also have touched upon economic recovery efforts, humanitarian support, and the political situation in Eastern Europe. The dialogue reflects a renewed interest in building stronger bilateral relations between the two nations, which have been key partners since the start of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022.

Observers view the continued communication between Zelensky and Trump as a sign of Ukraine’s determination to maintain close ties with major international players. It also highlights Trump’s ongoing influence in global politics, particularly in matters relating to security, diplomacy, and energy cooperation.

This marks the second phone call between the two leaders in as many days, with the previous one taking place on Saturday. The frequency of their communication underscores a shared commitment to open dialogue and strategic partnership.

The renewed engagement also comes at a critical time, as Ukraine continues to pursue modernization of its armed forces and seeks international support for reconstruction and stability. With Trump expected to remain a key voice in U.S. foreign policy debates, his interaction with Zelensky could help shape future cooperation between the two nations, particularly in the areas of defense innovation, technological collaboration, and energy transition.

Regional analysts suggest that the ongoing talks between Kyiv and Washington demonstrate a growing consensus that global peace and security depend on robust alliances, energy independence, and diplomatic engagement.

As both leaders agreed to continue their discussions, there is optimism that their dialogue will translate into tangible partnerships and joint initiatives that reinforce Ukraine’s sovereignty and strengthen the broader transatlantic relationship.

The Ukrainian President ended his statement on a hopeful note:

“Our conversations are not just about immediate defense needs, but about building a future of stability, resilience, and cooperation. The United States remains one of Ukraine’s strongest allies.”

The international community is closely watching the evolving relationship between the two leaders, which could mark a new chapter in Ukraine-U.S. relations amid a rapidly changing global landscape.