U.S. President Donald Trump has called for increased deliveries of Patriot missile systems to Ukraine following a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday. The call came amid intensifying Russian airstrikes and growing concerns over Ukraine’s ability to defend its airspace.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump characterized the conversation as “good” and acknowledged Ukraine’s urgent need for enhanced air defenses. “They’re going to need them for defence… They’re being hit pretty hard,” Trump said, referring to Ukraine’s request for additional Patriot systems. He praised the U.S.-made system as “pretty amazing” and expressed concern over Russia’s ongoing aggression.

Trump also revealed frustration following a recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. “I was very unhappy with my call with President Putin,” he said. “He wants to go all the way, just keep killing people – it’s no good.”

Zelensky confirmed the call in a Telegram post, stating that he and Trump had agreed to expand Ukraine’s air defense capabilities through cooperation on joint production, procurement, and investments.

Ukraine has consistently urged the United States to accelerate shipments of Patriot missile systems, which are critical to protecting civilian infrastructure from Russian missile and drone barrages. Earlier this week, the Biden administration paused certain weapons deliveries, raising alarm in Kyiv over a potential gap in Ukraine’s defensive shield.

Germany has since entered discussions to source additional Patriot units to help fill the shortfall.

A source familiar with the Trump-Zelensky call told Reuters the exchange was “very good” and indicated optimism that Patriot deliveries could soon resume.

Meanwhile, Russian forces continue their relentless bombardment of Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Despite international pressure, President Putin has shown no willingness to consider a ceasefire, prompting fears among Ukraine and its allies that ongoing delays in military aid could tip the balance in Russia’s favor.

Now entering its third year, the war shows no signs of abating, with a major Russian summer offensive already underway.