U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to send Patriot missile systems to Ukraine to bolster its defense against Russian missile and drone attacks, marking a significant shift in U.S. military support amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. Trump cited Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deceptive diplomacy, stating, “He talks nice and then bombs everybody in the evening,” during remarks at Joint Base Andrews on Sunday.
Although the exact number of Patriot systems to be delivered was not disclosed, Trump emphasized that European Union nations will reimburse the United States 100% for the cost of the equipment. The president’s comments reflect growing frustration with Putin’s refusal to engage in ceasefire negotiations, a stance that may also lead to the U.S. supplying Ukraine with offensive weapons, according to Axios.
The announcement comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy continues to request enhanced air defense capabilities to counter Russia’s sustained aerial bombardment. Trump stated, “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.”
This development signals a departure from Trump’s earlier, more restrained position on Ukraine, aligning U.S. support more closely with NATO allies. The president is expected to meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte later this week to discuss Ukraine and broader security issues.
