President Donald Trump has confirmed a new agreement with NATO to facilitate the supply of U.S. weapons to Ukraine. In a phone interview with NBC News on March 14, 2024, Trump stated that NATO would cover the costs of these weapons, claiming, “We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, a hundred percent.”
During the conversation, Trump detailed that the U.S. would send Patriot missile systems to NATO, which would then distribute them to Ukraine. This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions among NATO members about enhancing Ukraine’s military capabilities in response to the ongoing conflict with Russia.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte indicated earlier in the day that he had urged leaders to provide Ukraine with more ammunition and air defense systems. Rutte shared on social media platform X, “I’ve just spoken with President Trump & am now working closely with Allies to get Ukraine the help they need.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also commented on the situation, stating that the United States is in active discussions with European nations regarding the sharing of Patriot batteries with Ukraine. Speaking to reporters in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Rubio noted, “Countries that have ordered Patriot batteries that are about to receive shipments of them, it’d be great if one of them volunteered to defer that shipment and send it to Ukraine instead.”
This week, Trump hinted at the possibility of sending an additional Patriot air defense system to Ukraine, acknowledging the country’s request for more advanced weaponry. “They would like it, they’ve asked for it — they’re very rare indeed, because a lot of systems have been sent to Ukraine,” he remarked on March 13. He also emphasized the high cost of such systems, highlighting that any decision would require careful consideration.
In his NBC interview, Trump mentioned that he would make a “major statement” regarding Russia on March 18, 2024, although he did not provide specific details at that time. “I’m disappointed in Russia … a major statement to make on Russia on Monday,” he stated.
This deal marks a significant step in NATO’s ongoing support for Ukraine, reflecting the alliance’s commitment to bolster the country’s defense capabilities amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. The collaboration highlights the evolving dynamics within international relations and military alliances, as nations respond to the challenges posed by regional conflicts.
As the situation unfolds, the international community will be closely monitoring the implications of this agreement and its impact on the conflict in Ukraine.