Donald Trump just made a big play in the Russia-Ukraine war, yesterday, he’s sending Patriot missiles to Kyiv, and he claims that the European Union will pay for them.
It was announced Sunday, when Trump promised to assist Ukraine in defending against Russia’s increasing aerial bombardments without continuing to waste U.S. taxpayer dollars. Even though he did not indicate how many missiles would be exported, he made one thing unmistakably clear: “The EU’s going to pay us 100% for that, and that’s the way we want it.”
The commitment represents a sharp change in tone for Trump, who had earlier characterized the conflict as an American waste. But retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump’s special representative to Ukraine and Russia who touched down in Kyiv on Monday, said that the administration is now more engaged. Ukrainian authorities verified Kellogg’s visit and stated talks would focus on defense coordination, arms, sanctions, and intensifying U.S.-Ukraine security relations.
Ukraine’s presidential office head Andrii Yermak supported Trump’s new position that “Russia does not want a ceasefire” and noted Trump’s principle of “peace through strength.” The U.S. initiative to deploy Patriot systems met with guarded hope in Europe as well. A spokesperson for the German defense ministry noted to Reuters that negotiations continue regarding how many systems would be deployed, who would do it, and how it’ll be funded.
Putin’s side isn’t exactly delighted. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov conceded that American weapons deliveries to Ukraine “have continued and continue,” fueling the tensions. Trump didn’t hesitate to trash talk Putin either, telling us, “Putin talks nice and then he bombs everybody.” Trump previewed earlier that he’d make a “major statement” about Russia this week, and clearly, he did.
At the same time, Trump supporter Senator Lindsey Graham labeled the new developments a “turning point” in the war. South Carolina Republican Lindsey Graham stated Trump’s interest in coming to Ukraine’s defense evidences a wider reevaluation of U.S. participation in the conflict as it approaches a make-or-break point.
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is also jumping into the fray, with meetings in Washington with Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and influential members of Congress. Rutte’s visit also serves to highlight just how high the stakes are and just how seriously the alliance is taking the next moves of the U.S.
This statement not only marks a shift in Trump’s foreign policy rhetoric, but it also pressures Russia while assuring European allies that the U.S. is not out of the game. Whether or not the EU actually pays 100% of the bill is to be determined, but here’s one thing for certain, Trump’s attempting to be tough on defense without doling out American dollars.
Leo Cruz brings sharp insights into the world of politics, offering balanced reporting and analysis on the latest policies, elections, and global political events. With years of experience covering campaigns and interviewing world leaders, Leo ensures readers are always informed and engaged.
