US President Donald Trump has claimed that NATO will cover the full cost of American weapons sent to Ukraine, under what he described as a new agreement between the Alliance and Washington.
In an interview with NBC, Trump stated:
“We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100 percent. We’re going to be sending Patriots to NATO, and then NATO will distribute that.”
President Trump, who returned to office earlier this year, offered no further details about the deal. NATO has not yet confirmed the arrangement, though CNN has reportedly reached out to the Alliance for comment.
Trump’s remarks suggest a shift in how the US may continue to support Ukraine’s war effort, potentially placing more financial responsibility on NATO members. The statement is particularly striking given Trump’s long-standing criticism of the Alliance over defence spending.
Statement on Russia Expected Monday
Trump also indicated that he will make what he called a “major statement” on Russia on Monday, 14 July, though he did not elaborate on its content.
“I’m disappointed in Russia,” he said. “A major statement to make on Russia on Monday.”
The announcement has prompted speculation about whether the US might take a firmer stance towards Moscow in the coming days.
Background
According to earlier reports, the US is preparing to send arms to Kyiv for the first time since Trump’s return to the White House. The delivery is expected to be facilitated through the Presidential Drawdown Authority, a mechanism used previously by President Joe Biden to expedite military aid.
The upcoming shipment is believed to be worth approximately US$300 million, and forms part of a renewed American push to support Ukraine on the battlefield.
It has also been reported that the US has resumed deliveries of 155mm artillery shells and GMLRS precision-guided rockets to Ukrainian forces.
While the full scope of the NATO arrangement remains unclear, Trump’s comments signal a possible shift in both funding structure and transatlantic cooperation surrounding military aid to Ukraine.
