In a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, Trump expressed discontent over Russia's aggression and affirmed that Ukraine will receive additional defensive weapons to bolster its defenses against ongoing attacks.
Trump Promises More Weapons for Ukraine Amid US Shipment Pause
Trump Promises More Weapons for Ukraine Amid US Shipment Pause
Former President Trump announces renewed military support for Ukraine following a temporary halt on defensive arms shipments by the US.
Former President Donald Trump has pledged that the United States will resume supplying military aid to Ukraine. This statement follows last week’s controversial announcement that the US would suspend certain arms shipments to Kyiv, which included critical systems such as Patriot air defense missiles. In a conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump stated he was “not happy” with Russian President Vladimir Putin and acknowledged that Ukraine was experiencing severe military pressure.
The former president indicated that Ukraine would receive predominantly “defensive weapons” to enhance its efforts in repelling Russian assaults. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has strongly advocated for continued support, labeling the American Patriot systems as vital for the safety of Ukraine and its citizens.
The White House attributed last week’s shipment suspension to a decision made to prioritize “America's interests” stemming from a Department of Defense review concerning international military support. However, the abrupt pause ignited concern in Ukraine, particularly after a week marked by fierce Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukrainian urban centers like Kyiv.
In a follow-up address, Trump stressed the urgent need for Ukraine to defend itself effectively, stating, “We’re going to send some more weapons. We have to... They’re getting hit very hard now.” He expressed disappointment at Putin’s lack of initiative to cease hostilities.
In response to Trump’s leadership, the Pentagon confirmed in a brief statement that additional defensive weapons will be sent to Ukraine under his direction, affirming the US commitment to help Ukraine ensure its defense while simultaneously working towards a sustainable peace.
The development is viewed positively in Ukraine, where officials warned that the temporary slowdown in shipments would complicate defensive efforts against increasing airstrikes. Zelensky noted a conversation he had with Trump regarding collaboration on air defense measures, affirming a joint commitment to enhance the protection of Ukrainian airspace.
The war in Ukraine has persisted for over three years since Russia initiated its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Efforts to negotiate a ceasefire have stalled, leading to further tension as hostilities continue to escalate. Just hours after a conversation between Trump and Putin, Ukrainian officials reported a record attack involving 539 drones aimed at various regions across the country, including Kyiv, exacerbating fears of increased Russian aggression. Zelensky has called for more pressure from international allies, particularly the US, to deter Moscow effectively.
