By IndoUS Tribune Staff

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal on the sidelines of the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome. The meeting marked a significant development as it was the first time the United States officially participated in the “Coalition of the Willing” meeting format.

“I had a good meeting with U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham and Richard Blumenthal. I’m grateful for their presence at the conference and their support for Ukraine,” Zelensky shared on social media platform X.

The discussions focused on Ukraine’s pressing need for enhanced air defense. Zelensky warned of potential Russian drone strikes involving up to a thousand drones at once, stressing the urgency of acquiring interceptor drones and continuing U.S. military support. He also expressed Ukraine’s willingness to jointly produce and purchase a large-scale defense package in collaboration with the U.S. and Europe.

The leaders also addressed new legislation introduced by the two Senators, aimed at imposing tougher sanctions on Russia and its war supporters. “This kind of leverage can bring peace closer and ensure diplomacy carries real weight,” Zelensky said.

The fourth Ukraine Recovery Conference, held from July 10–11, gathered delegates from 32 countries and international organizations. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni hosted the event, which focused on Ukraine’s long-term reconstruction.

U.S. President’s Special Representative for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, also attended, highlighting deepening American engagement in Ukraine’s recovery efforts.

During the meeting, Zelensky acknowledged the importance of international support, adding, “Thank you to President Trump. His signals are very important. We aim to grow this coalition.”