Thu Jul 17 13:52:12 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten version as a news article, formatted for The Hindu:
**Summary:**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump are reportedly considering a deal where the U.S. would purchase Ukrainian battlefield-proven drone technology in exchange for Ukraine buying U.S. weapons. Zelensky highlighted the effectiveness of Ukrainian drones, capable of striking targets deep within Russia, and expressed willingness to share this technology with the U.S. and other European partners. The U.S. is already increasing spending on small drones in its next defense budget, influenced by the demonstrated effectiveness of drones in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Zelensky also announced unspecified future agreements with the U.S. that will strengthen Ukraine.
**News Article:**
**The Hindu: World Affairs**
**U.S., Ukraine Mull Drone-for-Weapons Deal**
*WASHINGTON, JULY 17, 2025:* Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump regarding a potential agreement where Washington would acquire Ukrainian-developed drone technology in exchange for Kyiv purchasing arms from the United States.
In an interview with the New York Post, Mr. Zelensky emphasized the success of Ukrainian drones, which have demonstrated the capability to strike targets up to 800 miles within Russian territory. He stated, “The people of America need this technology, and you need to have it in your arsenal.”
Mr. Zelensky touted drones as a pivotal element in Ukraine’s defense against the ongoing Russian invasion, now in its third year. “We will be ready to share this experience with America and other European partners,” he added, noting that Ukraine is also in talks with Denmark, Norway, and Germany.
Speaking in parliament on Thursday, Mr. Zelensky announced future agreements with the United States, though unspecified, will enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities as he appeared in parliament to put forward his new government.
This potential agreement comes as the U.S. moves to bolster its own drone capabilities. Next year’s U.S. defense and national security budget is expected to increase spending on small drones, influenced by the lessons learned from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where unmanned aircraft have proven their value in modern warfare. The deal signals a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations amid the continuing conflict in Eastern Europe.