Fedorov offers to help US build ‘drone army’ in exchange for Patriot interceptors

Fedorov, who is currently in Washington, did not say whether he would meet members of the Trump administration during his visit but said he would be "very happy to help America build a drone army - especially in exchange for Patriots."

According to the Financial Times, Fedorov is holding talks with a range of potential investors interested in Ukrainian defense innovation. He wants to attract investment in battlefield robotics, interceptor drones designed to counter Russian UAVs, and low-cost AI-powered missiles.

"We need more jet-powered drones, we need cheap missiles, AI-powered missiles. Otherwise, you cannot have any dialogue with Putin... He only understands strength," Fedorov said.

The former defense minister said he hopes that helping partner countries innovate within their own militaries could lead to greater cooperation on air defense, which Ukraine urgently needs. He also said he would seek advisory roles in other partner countries, potentially including France and the United States.

Fedorov has already taken on such a role in Italy. Earlier this month, he accepted an offer from Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto to serve as his adviser on defense innovation.