Axios: Zelenskyy asked for missiles similar to Tomahawk in White House meeting

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy pressed US President Donald Trump for long-range missiles that “don't require much time for training” during a tense October 17 White House meeting.

Zelenskyy described the White House discussion as “constructive” but admitted it included tense exchanges about potential peace deal frameworks and Ukraine’s desire for long-range missile support, Caliber.Az reports via Axios. 

He stressed that the goal is to create leverage over Putin rather than immediate military action.

“We speak not only about Tomahawks. The U.S. has a lot of similar things that doesn't require much time for training. I think the way to work with Putin is only through pressure,” Zelenskyy said.

Explaining the strategy, he added, “If Putin knows that not talking risks 'problems with Russia's energy facilities,' then he'll talk.”

Zelenskyy emphasised that these capabilities would strengthen Ukraine’s position in negotiations while potentially shortening the conflict.

By Sabina Mammadli