Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday said he held a “substantive conversation” with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, focusing on ballistic missile interceptors, advance warnings of Russian missile attacks and the restoration of satellite communication services used by Ukrainian forces.
In a post on X, Zelenskyy said the discussion centred on Ukraine’s urgent defence requirements as Kyiv continues diplomatic efforts to end the war with Russia.
“I spoke with Marco Rubio @SecRubio, and it was a substantive conversation – focused on the issues that matter. I am grateful for his readiness to help and his clear position. First, ballistic missile interceptors, which are needed to protect lives. Second, early warning of Russian ballistic missile attacks, which is vital. Third, the situation with Starlink/Starshield, which needs to be restored. Of course, all of this comes against the backdrop of our diplomatic efforts to end this horrific war and the constant killing of people.”
“We agreed to get in touch again soon for an update. Thank you, Marco, for the constructive discussion! Thank you to everyone in America who supports fair approaches,” he added.
Ukraine seeks missile defence support
Zelenskyy’s remarks underline Ukraine’s continuing need for American military assistance and intelligence to defend against Russian attacks. Ballistic missile interceptors are a key part of Kyiv’s efforts to protect civilians and critical infrastructure from incoming strikes.
The Ukrainian president said the two sides had agreed to speak again soon to exchange updates on the issues discussed.
Zelenskyy says US intelligence sharing resumed
The conversation came after Zelenskyy said in a separate interview with NBC that the United States had temporarily paused intelligence sharing with Ukraine for three days, leaving Ukrainian forces without certain American warnings of Russian ballistic missile attacks during that period.
“We didn’t see attacks of Russia using ballistic missiles,” Zelenskyy said.
He said Ukraine continued receiving intelligence from European governments and other international partners, but their capabilities could not fully replace the specialised information available from Washington.
“We have dozens of countries who help. But only United States has this unique intelligence to say, to tell us, to tell our side when Russia uses ballistic missiles,” he said.
“And we didn’t get it during ballistic attacks during three days.”
Zelenskyy subsequently said the intelligence-sharing arrangement had been restored.
Satellite communication services remain a concern
Zelenskyy also raised the status of Starlink and Starshield, satellite communication systems used by Ukrainian forces. He said their operation needed to be restored, highlighting Kyiv’s concerns over access to communications technology essential for battlefield coordination.
The issue has added to uncertainty surrounding the extent of Washington’s military and intelligence support for Ukraine. US officials have disputed some claims about the restrictions, while reports have described operational difficulties linked to satellite services.
Diplomatic efforts continue amid military needs
Zelenskyy said the discussions with Rubio were taking place alongside Ukraine’s efforts to secure a diplomatic end to the conflict.
(With inputs from IANS)
Zelenskyy, Rubio hold talks on missile interceptors, Russian attack warnings
