Trump’s Ukraine Play: Billions in Arms, All on NATO?

President Donald Trump has stated that the United States will send weapons to Ukraine through NATO, with NATO allies fully funding the cost of these weapons. This arrangement was reportedly discussed and agreed upon during a recent NATO summit.

According to reports, the U.S. will sell weapons, including Patriot air defense systems and potentially other offensive weaponry, to NATO, and then NATO will transfer these weapons to Ukraine. Trump emphasized that NATO will reimburse the U.S. for 100% of the cost.

This announcement follows a period of some uncertainty regarding U.S. military aid to Ukraine, including a brief pause in certain weapons shipments by the Pentagon. Trump has recently expressed increased frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, indicating a shift in his administration’s approach. He also stated his intention to make a “major statement” on Russia soon.

Ukrainian officials have been urgently seeking more air defense systems, particularly Patriots, to counter intensified Russian missile and drone attacks. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also urged allies to bolster support for Ukraine