President Donald Trump announced Sunday that the U.S. will send Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, calling it a critical need for Kyiv as Russia intensifies its attacks. The decision follows Trump’s earlier promise of a “major statement on Russia” Monday, coinciding with high-level diplomatic meetings, including a closed-door discussion with NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg.
The move marks a shift from earlier hesitation on military aid, with Trump clarifying that NATO allies would fully reimburse the U.S. for the weapons. “They’re going to pay us 100%—it’ll be business for us,” he told reporters at Joint Base Andrews. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had recently hinted at progress in securing additional Patriots, which are vital for intercepting Russian missiles.
Trump, who once expressed optimism about negotiating with Vladimir Putin, has grown increasingly critical of the Russian leader. “Putin talks nice and then bombs everybody in the evening,” he said Sunday, echoing his recent accusation that Moscow is spreading “bullshit” in stalled peace talks. Despite initial reluctance to impose sanctions, Trump hinted at potential new measures, stating, “We’re going to see what we will see tomorrow.”
The announcement comes as U.S. envoy Kurt Volker prepares for another Ukraine trip, and as Russia continues to reject U.S.-backed ceasefire proposals. With Congress pushing for stronger deterrents against Moscow, Trump’s meeting with Stoltenberg could signal a tougher stance. Meanwhile, Ukraine remains locked in a grinding war, with no breakthrough in sight despite Western arms deliveries and diplomatic efforts.