Ukraine is awaiting approval from the White House for a major drone production agreement proposed last year, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. The deal would integrate various drones and air defense systems into a unified network capable of countering large-scale attacks by Iranian-designed Shahed drones and missiles, which Russia has used extensively during its invasion.

Russia has launched tens of thousands of drones at Ukraine, including massive barrages involving hundreds at a time. Ukraine has responded by developing low-cost interceptor drones that have reshaped air defense strategies. Zelenskyy suggested that escalating conflict in the Middle East could encourage American officials to move forward with the agreement.

As diplomatic efforts to end the war remain stalled, Zelenskyy is seeking to strengthen international backing. He visited Romania and is set to meet France's president to discuss countering Russia's oil shipments that bypass sanctions. Rising oil prices linked to the Middle East conflict have boosted Moscow's revenue, providing critical funding for its war effort.