Ukraine has presented a proposal to purchase $100bn worth of American weapons, financed by Europe, as part of its effort to obtain U.S. security guarantees following a potential peace settlement with Russia, according to documents reviewed by the Financial Times.
Weapons and Drone Production Plans
The proposal includes not only the $100bn weapons purchase but also a $50bn agreement for joint production of drones between U.S. and Ukrainian companies. Kyiv, which has significantly advanced drone technology since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, hopes the plan will strengthen defense capabilities while appealing to U.S. industry — a priority for President Donald Trump.
The document does not list specific weapons systems but underscores Ukraine’s repeated request for at least 10 U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems to shield its cities and infrastructure. It also outlines interest in other missiles and defense equipment.
When asked at the White House about future military aid to Ukraine, Trump reiterated his stance: “We’re not giving anything. We’re selling weapons.”
Countering Russia’s Position
Ukraine’s proposal comes in response to Trump’s recent meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska, where Trump appeared to adopt Moscow’s stance on ending the war, dropping his earlier push for an immediate ceasefire. Kyiv’s plan stresses that any lasting peace must be based on a strong security framework rather than concessions to Russia.
The document highlights skepticism about Moscow’s intentions, citing Russian media coverage and derogatory remarks by Kremlin-aligned television host Vladimir Solovyov, who dismissed Trump’s threats and boasted about Russia’s nuclear capabilities.
Europe Pushes for Ceasefire
During the Washington meeting that included Trump, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and European leaders, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz emphasized that progress toward peace must begin with a ceasefire.
“I can’t imagine that the next meeting would take place without a ceasefire,” Merz said. “Let’s work on that and put pressure on Russia, because the credibility of these efforts depends on at least a ceasefire.”
Kyiv’s Red Lines
The Ukrainian government remains firm in rejecting any settlement that involves territorial concessions to Russia. The document specifically rejects Putin’s proposal — relayed to Trump in Alaska — that Ukraine withdraw from parts of Donetsk and Luhansk in exchange for a frozen frontline. Kyiv argues such a move would allow Russian forces to regroup and launch new advances, threatening cities like Dnipro.
The document further insists that Russia must provide full compensation for wartime damages, potentially using the $300bn in Russian sovereign assets frozen in Western countries. Any sanctions relief, Ukraine argues, should be conditional on Russia’s compliance with a future peace agreement.
The Stakes Ahead
For Kyiv, the proposals are designed to secure guarantees that prevent future aggression while simultaneously addressing Trump’s emphasis on economic benefit to the United States. The outcome of these negotiations could determine not only Ukraine’s long-term security but also the broader framework for stability in Europe.
