Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a "productive" phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on August 4, 2025, covering several key issues including sanctions against Russia, ongoing Russian strikes in Ukraine, and a significant drone production agreement between Ukraine and the United States. Zelenskyy noted that Moscow is already feeling the pressure from current sanctions and the broader international resolve expressed by Trump.
The talks included Trump’s demand that Russian President Vladimir Putin reach a peace agreement by August 8, or face intensified sanctions. Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine has prepared a draft agreement on drones, which they are ready to discuss in detail and sign with the U.S., in what has been described as one of the strongest agreements of its kind, aimed at boosting Ukraine’s defense capabilities through foreign investment in drone manufacturing.
Trump also remarked that global energy price declines could pressure Putin to halt the war, stating that a $10 per barrel drop in oil prices would heavily impact the Russian economy, potentially forcing an end to hostilities.
This conversation was part of ongoing diplomatic efforts as Kyiv increasingly leans on foreign partnerships to strengthen its defense amid intensified Russian military attacks, including recent strikes that killed at least six civilians.
The dialogue underscored the coordination between Ukraine and the U.S. on strategic defense and economic pressure tactics to end the Russian invasion.