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Zelensky and Costa to Discuss Drone Deal Cooperation

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Council President Charles Michel Costa agreed to meet to discuss the Drone Deal cooperation. This development follows talks on unblocking a €90 billion aid package.

Ukrinform UAUpdate2 min readUpdated 4/22/2026

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This page is updated as verified details move. The lead and top sections are tightened first when the clearest confirmed angle changes.

Published Apr 21, 2026, 4:13 PMUpdated Apr 22, 2026, 5:08 AM
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and European Council President Charles Michel Costa agreed to meet to discuss the Drone Deal coope...

Photo: Ukrinform UA

At a glance

  • Zelensky and Costa agreed to meet to discuss the Drone Deal.
  • €90 billion aid package for Ukraine is under discussion.
  • Ukraine has commenced cooperation on drone technology with several EU countries.
  • Zelensky emphasized the uniqueness of Ukraine's life protection system.
  • Ongoing repairs on the Druzhba pipeline connect to financial support from the EU.

Why it matters

Strengthening drone capabilities can bolster Ukraine's defense against ongoing threats. Securing substantial financial aid is also crucial for Ukraine's economic stability and recovery.

https://www.ukrinform.ua/rubric-polytics/4115038-zelenskij-i-kosta-domovilisa-zustritisa-sob-obgovoriti-spivpracu-u-formati-drone-deal.html

What Happened

President Volodymyr Zelensky held discussions with Charles Michel Costa, the President of the European Council, regarding the unblocking of a €90 billion aid package for Ukraine. The meeting highlighted the importance of their collaboration under the Drone Deal initiative.

Key Details

During the conversation, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's commitment to the conditions set by the European Union. He stated that Ukraine had satisfactorily addressed the requests posed by the bloc.

Additionally, Costa acknowledged Ukraine's security agreements with nations in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Zelensky described the Ukrainian life protection system offered to partners through the Drone Deal as unique.

He mentioned that Ukraine has already initiated this cooperation with several European countries, indicating a proactive approach to strengthening regional security through drones. The two leaders also expressed the necessity of a face-to-face meeting to further discuss these topics in detail soon.

Zelensky asserted that a united and secure Europe is essential for stability in the region.

Why It Matters

Cooperation under the Drone Deal could significantly enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities. The discussion of unblocking substantial financial aid also highlights the ongoing financial reliance of Ukraine on European support amidst the ongoing conflict.

Background

Earlier statements by Zelensky indicated that Ukraine had completed repairs on the damaged section of the Druzhba pipeline, which was targeted by Russian strikes. This restoration is linked to the prospective unblocking of Europe’s support package for Ukraine, which had previously been approved by the European Council.

The timely completion of this pipeline repair is seen as crucial in the broader context of energy security and economic stability for Ukraine. President Zelensky's ongoing dialogues with European leaders signify Ukraine's strategic efforts to secure necessary resources and support amid continuous military challenges.

The Drone Deal initiative aims to enhance collective security and defense capabilities across Europe, aligning with international efforts to deter aggression and promote stability in the region.

Source: Ukrinform UA

This report is maintained as a live newsroom article. Headlines and top paragraphs may be tightened when fresh reporting changes the clearest angle.

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