U.S. policy towards the war in Ukraine, President Donald Trump has announced plans to send advanced air defence systems, including the Patriot missile systems, to Ukraine through NATO. The decision, revealed in an interview with NBC News, comes amid growing concerns over Russia’s intensified drone and missile attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Trump said the weapons would be transferred to NATO first, which would then distribute them to Ukraine. He emphasized that NATO, rather than the U.S. directly, would bear the financial burden: “NATO is going to reimburse the full cost.” The move appears to be part of a broader effort to maintain alliance unity while addressing Ukraine’s urgent need for air defence support.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed that he had held a “positive dialogue” with Trump regarding the delivery of weapons, particularly the Patriot systems. Zelensky said he had requested 10 Patriot batteries to protect Ukraine’s skies, following a week that saw record drone attacks by Russia. On Tuesday alone, Ukraine was bombarded with 728 drones, and Zelensky warned that Russia aims to raise that number to 1,000.
Germany and Norway have already pledged support, with Germany agreeing to fund two Patriot systems and Norway committing to one. Other European allies are reportedly considering similar contributions.
The U.S. Department of Defense had previously paused some shipments of critical weaponry, including Patriot interceptor missiles and precision artillery shells, triggering concern in Kyiv about potential shortfalls in Ukraine’s air defences. However, Trump’s recent remarks suggest a renewed commitment to maintaining Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, urging NATO members such as Germany and Spain to transfer existing Patriot batteries to Ukraine, noting these could arrive faster than newly purchased ones. He hinted at financial agreements that would allow countries to replenish their stockpiles after the transfer.
As civilian casualties in Ukraine reach their highest levels in three years, with 232 killed and over 1,300 injured in June alone, the deployment of additional air defence systems could prove critical. Trump also hinted at a “major statement” on Russia expected Monday, signaling potential further developments in U.S. policy toward the ongoing conflict.
