Trump says the US will send Patriot missiles to Ukraine under a NATO deal as he criticizes Putin’s aggression.

US Shifts to Supply Ukraine With Patriot Missiles

President Donald Trump announced that the United States will send Patriot missiles and other advanced military equipment to Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in support for the country’s defense against Russia. The move comes as NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte visits Washington, D.C. for talks with the president about ongoing security challenges in Europe.

Trump told reporters Sunday that Ukraine "desperately needs" defensive weaponry and confirmed that, under a new NATO agreement, the US will provide Patriots and other arms through allied nations. “They are going to pay us 100 percent for them. And that’s the way we want it,” Trump said, emphasizing that the European Union will bear the costs of the weapons supplied to Ukraine. “We’re not paying anything for it. But we will send it, and it’ll be good news for us, we will send them Patriots, which they desperately need,” he added.

The president was cautious about committing to a specific number of missile systems, noting that the details would be finalized in upcoming meetings. The arrangement ensures that while the US provides critical defense systems, the financial responsibility lies with European partners—a key aspect of Trump’s America First defense priorities.

Putin’s Actions Spark Renewed Urgency

Trump justified the decision by sharply criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent military actions. “Putin had really surprised a lot of people. He talks nice, and then he bombs everybody in the evening. It’s a little bit of a problem there, I don't like it,” Trump remarked. The comments reflect growing concern about Russia’s tactics and the threat posed to Ukraine’s civilian population.

Last week, Trump explained that, “what we’re doing is the weapons that are going out are going to NATO, and then NATO is going to be giving those weapons to Ukraine, and NATO is paying for those weapons.” This framework is intended to both strengthen Ukraine’s defenses and reassure US allies about the shared burdens of European security.

The Pentagon had previously halted some shipments of weapons to Ukraine, including Patriot missile interceptors and 155mm artillery shells, after a review indicated US stockpiles were critically low. The decision, driven by Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, was meant to preserve America’s own defense readiness. However, Trump’s directive now paves the way for renewed military aid, provided that the arrangement aligns with broader US security interests.

Pentagon Stresses Defensive Aims

Pentagon Spokesman Sean Parnell confirmed the shift in policy, stating, “At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops.” He emphasized that all military shipments remain subject to presidential review, consistent with America First principles.

The new arrangement signals a calculated US effort to help Ukraine resist Russian aggression while safeguarding American security interests and fiscal priorities. As the situation evolves, all eyes are on the White House and NATO to see how the enhanced military support might influence the outcome of the conflict and the prospects for peace in Eastern Europe.