US President Donald Trump has announced a significant new step in military assistance to Ukraine, pledging to send Patriot air defense systems to help the country defend itself against ongoing Russian attacks. The announcement marks a notable shift in US policy, coming just days after a temporary pause in arms deliveries to Kyiv. Trump’s decision reflects growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin’s continued aggression and reluctance to negotiate a ceasefire.
“Putin Talks Nice and Then Bombs Everybody”
Addressing reporters at Joint Base Andrews outside Washington on Sunday, Trump sharply criticized Putin’s approach to the conflict. “We will send them Patriots, which they desperately need, because Putin really surprised a lot of people. He talks nice and then bombs everybody in the evening. But there’s a little bit of a problem there. I don’t like it,” Trump stated. He underscored the urgency of Ukraine’s need for advanced air defense as Russia intensifies its aerial assault, launching hundreds of drones and missiles in recent weeks.
- YouTube youtu.be
European Union to Cover the Costs
While Trump did not specify how many Patriot systems would be sent, he was clear on the financial arrangement: “We basically are going to send them various pieces of very sophisticated military equipment. They are going to pay us 100% for that, and that’s the way we want it.” The president explained that the European Union would fully reimburse the US for the cost of the weaponry, emphasizing a new model of allied burden-sharing for military aid to Ukraine.
No Immediate Details on Sanctions
When asked whether new sanctions against Russia would be announced, Trump responded ambiguously: “We’re going to see what we will see tomorrow, OK?” This statement comes as he prepares for a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, where the ongoing war in Ukraine and further Western responses are expected to top the agenda.
Mounting Pressure on Ukraine’s Defenses
The announcement comes at a critical time for Ukraine. Russian forces have recently escalated their campaign, launching over 700 attack and decoy drones in a single week and pressing along a 1,000-kilometre front line. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has repeatedly called for more advanced air defense systems to protect civilians and infrastructure from these attacks.
Trump’s Growing Frustration with Putin
Trump’s remarks reflect a shift in tone from earlier in his presidency, when he claimed he could broker a swift end to the war. At a recent Cabinet meeting, he expressed his dissatisfaction: “I’m not happy with President Putin over a conflict that’s killing a lot of people on both sides.” In an earlier interview, Trump hinted at a “major announcement” on Russia, signaling that further policy changes may be forthcoming.
Looking Ahead: NATO and Ukraine
With the US set to send Patriot systems and other sophisticated military equipment to Ukraine, and with full reimbursement from Europe, Trump’s latest move signals a renewed commitment to Ukraine’s defense. The coming days are expected to bring further announcements as Trump meets with NATO leaders and considers additional steps to counter Russia’s ongoing offensive.
