Shmyhal, Kellogg Discuss Boosting Defense Ties and Tougher Sanctions on Russia

Acting Prime Minister of Ukraine Denys Shmyhal met with U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine General Keith Kellogg, in Kyiv on Tuesday to discuss the future of bilateral defense cooperation and efforts to escalate economic pressure on Russia.

The Gaze reports this, referring to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine.

During the talks, Shmyhal expressed gratitude tо U.S. President Donald Trump for authorizing the sale of critical air defense systems, including Patriot missile systems, to NATO allies for eventual delivery to Ukraine. 

He emphasized that such support plays a vital role in protecting civilian lives amid ongoing Russian missile and drone attacks.

“Providing these weapons will save countless lives and strengthen Ukraine’s ability to defend itself,” Shmyhal said.

He reaffirmed Ukraine’s determination to deepen defense cooperation with the United States, particularly in the domain of air defense. 

Shmyhal also voiced interest in expanding joint arms production with American partners and enhancing trilateral cooperation with European countries on defense procurement.

In addition, the central point of the meeting was the need to reinforce the sanctions regime against Russia. 

Shmyhal stressed that increasing economic pressure is essential to weakening Russia’s ability to wage war and advancing prospects for a sustainable and just peace.

“We must deliver a truly painful blow to the Russian economy. We count on the leadership of the United States in advancing a sustainable and just peace,” Shmyhal stated, thanking Kellogg for his personal engagement and support of Ukraine’s diplomatic efforts.

As The Gaze reported earlier, on July 14, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump’s special representative Keith Kellogg discussed the Russian-Ukrainian war.