Zelenskyy congratulates Trump on nomination, promotes support for Ukraine defense

Former president and GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy released statements on Friday after they held an anticipated post-RNC conversation over the phone emphasizing their goals if they work together during a second Trump administration.

Zelenskyy said he congratulated Trump on the GOP nomination and "wished him strength and absolute safety" after an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. As expected Zelenskyy emphasized his eagerness to work with Trump, if elected, to continue to receive support for his country's defense against Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

RELATED STORY | Lawmakers who attended briefings unsatisfied with details about Trump rally shooting

"Ukraine will always be grateful to the United States for its help in strengthening our ability to resist Russian terror. Russian attacks on our cities and villages continue every day," Zelenskyy said.

Trump released a message on his Truth Social platform writing, "I appreciate President Zelenskyy for reaching out because I, as your next President of the United States, will bring peace to the world and end the war that has cost so many lives and devastated countless innocent families."

Trump called the phone call "good" and said he wishes to make "a deal that ends the violence and paves a path forward to prosperity."