Zelensky Says He Did Not Hear 'No' on Licenses to Produce Missile Interceptors

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that during talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in New York, the two discussed the possibility of providing Ukraine with licenses to produce interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems.

Zelensky said he "did not hear 'no'" from Trump on the matter, suggesting the U.S. side had not ruled out the proposal, though he did not indicate that a firm commitment had been made.

Ukraine has sought expanded air defense capabilities throughout the war, including interceptor missiles used with Patriot systems to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. Domestic production licenses would potentially allow Ukraine to manufacture interceptors itself rather than relying solely on supplies from allies.

The discussion took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, where Zelensky has held a series of meetings with world leaders to press Ukraine's case for continued military and diplomatic support.

No formal agreement on the licensing proposal has been publicly announced by either government.