Trump to send arms to Ukraine via NATO
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will supply weapons to Ukraine through NATO, with NATO covering the full cost of these shipments. In a recent interview, Trump detailed that the U.S. would send arms from its stockpiles to NATO, which would then distribute them to Ukraine. This initiative represents the first time Trump will utilize the Presidential Drawdown Authority to send military aid to Kyiv, a power previously employed by his predecessor. The arms package is expected to be valued at approximately $300 million and may include defensive Patriot missiles and offensive medium-range rockets, although the specifics are still under discussion.
NATO Chief Mark Rutte is set to visit Washington D.C. for meetings with Trump and other U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. Trump's recent remarks indicate his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he criticized for failing to make progress in peace negotiations while continuing military aggression against Ukraine. Trump underscored the urgent need for advanced defense systems in Ukraine, especially given the recent surge in Russian missile and drone attacks.
This delivery of Patriot missile systems will mark the first under the current administration, with European allies, including Germany and Norway, contributing to the funding and logistics of the operation. Germany has already supplied three batteries and is preparing to finance additional support. Discussions between U.S. and German defense officials will focus on financial contributions and broader NATO strategies, including the deployment of U.S. troops and long-range missiles in Europe. The developments highlight a significant shift in U.S. military support for Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia.
