• Zelenskyy and Trump agree on team meeting for joint air defense production.
• Over 500 Russian drones and missiles launched in a single day.
• Dozens of Iranian-made Shahed drones intercepted by Ukrainian forces.
• Ukraine signs first EU-based weapons coproduction deal with Denmark.
• Four police officers awarded “Hero of Ukraine” titles; POWs return in new exchange.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed he held a key phone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday, focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in air defense and military production. According to Zelenskyy, both sides agreed to initiate a meeting between their defense teams to explore joint production of interceptor drones and other technologies.
Russia Launches Over 500 Drones and Missiles
In the same daily briefing, Zelenskyy detailed what he called a “rocky start” to the day — with Ukraine enduring more than 500 Russian attack drones and missiles. While several missiles struck their targets, a significant number were intercepted, especially using Ukraine’s newly developed interceptor drones.
“Dozens of Shaheds were taken down specifically by interceptors,” Zelenskyy said, praising the performance of drone operators. He added that Ukraine is scaling up production and training of drone systems to meet future threats.
Ukraine Signs Weapons Coproduction Deal With Denmark
President Zelenskyy also highlighted a major development in European support for Ukraine — the signing of the country’s first weapons coproduction agreement within the European Union. The deal, reached with Denmark, is seen as a critical step toward long-term security and defense investment on the continent.
Police Honors and POW Exchange Mark National Milestones
July 3 also marked Ukraine’s National Police Day. Zelenskyy honored law enforcement officers working on the front lines alongside military units. Four officers received the title of “Hero of Ukraine,” including one posthumously.
In a separate announcement, the president confirmed that another group of Ukrainian prisoners of war had returned home following a negotiated exchange with Russia. “We are preparing further exchanges,” Zelenskyy noted.
EU Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Ukraine
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s long-term support for Ukraine in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter):
Dear @ZelenskyyUA, Europe will continue to stand firmly by your side.
— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) July 3, 2025
For a just and lasting peace.
For a sovereign nation that shapes its own future.
For a country that belongs in the European Union ↓ https://t.co/gxFRA6dy5c
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
