Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky recently met with former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, a development Zelensky announced through his Telegram channel. The disclosure came as part of a broader briefing on ongoing cooperation with Western partners and the strong support Ukraine continues to receive as it navigates the security challenges ahead. Zelensky emphasized the importance of sustained collaboration with U.S. officials and highlighted Pompeo’s visit as a concrete sign of that continued engagement.
In the video message, Zelensky clarified that his team would not delve into every detail of the discussions publicly. He did, however, express appreciation for Pompeo and underscored the value of the exchange. The Ukrainian president also thanked U.S. lawmakers who have shown consistent backing for Ukraine’s sovereignty and reform efforts, noting that bipartisan support in Washington remains a key pillar for Ukraine’s resilience and modernization drive.
Earlier in the week, Zelensky spoke with CNN in an interview that touched on security assurances from the United States. He relayed that President Joe Biden conveyed the possibility of starting training for U.S.-provided F-16 fighter jet operations in the near term. This potential training pathway would prepare Ukrainian personnel to operate the aircraft effectively, should those systems be allocated for Ukraine’s defense needs in the future. The president stressed that any training and deployment would be guided by security considerations, regional stability, and the broader strategic goals of defending Ukrainian territory while avoiding unnecessary escalations.
As Kyiv waits for a final decision on the delivery of F-16s and the corresponding training, officials in Ukraine are assessing timelines, readiness, and the operational implications for both frontline defense and long-term interoperability with Western air forces. The discussions in Washington reflect a shared interest in strengthening Ukraine’s air capabilities, enhancing deterrence, and ensuring that support aligns with the realities on the ground in eastern and southern fronts.
In related remarks, Zelensky reiterated Kyiv’s stance regarding the use of Western weapons. He stressed that Ukraine does not seek to attack Russian territory and has consistently stated that any future deployment of Western arms would be aimed at defending Ukrainian sovereignty and safety. This position underscores a commitment to protecting civilians and stabilizing the region, while avoiding actions that could heighten cross-border tensions. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly reiterated readiness to cooperate with allied partners to ensure weapons are used strictly for defense and in accordance with international norms.