US President Donald Trump said Sunday that the United States will provide Ukraine with Patriot air defence missiles, but clarified that the weapons will not be paid for by Washington.
The announcement marks a shift in Trump’s earlier position, where he repeatedly opposed additional military assistance to Ukraine and instead called for a negotiated ceasefire with Russia.
“We’re not paying anything for them,” Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. “But we will get them Patriots, which they desperately need.”
He did not specify how many missiles would be sent or when the delivery might happen.
Kyiv Seeks Air Defence as War Intensifies
Ukraine has long requested additional air defence systems as Russian airstrikes continue to target its cities and infrastructure.
The country had been receiving US military support using funds allocated during President Joe Biden’s tenure. Since taking office, Trump has refused to push for new funding, arguing that it would reduce chances for diplomatic resolution and embolden Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Trump said on Sunday that the weapons would be delivered under the condition that Ukraine covers all costs. “Ukraine will pay us 100% for them,” he said.
Frustration with Putin Grows
While Trump had previously blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for prolonging the war and labeled him a “modestly successful comedian” and “dictator,” his tone toward Russia has shifted in recent weeks.
Amid a new wave of Russian airstrikes, Trump has expressed growing frustration with Putin’s unwillingness to entertain ceasefire negotiations.
Earlier this week, Trump said in an interview that he would support sending more defensive systems to Ukraine. The statement came after the Pentagon halted some planned military shipments, prompting speculation that US support for Ukraine was weakening.
Zelenskyy: Support Still Possible
Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy is staying in close contact with his Western allies to secure more aid.
Following a meeting in Rome, he said there’s a chance Trump could increase military support, especially for air defense. The offer of Patriot missiles is a big deal, even if Ukraine has to pay.
It could mean Trump is rethinking his old position, offering Kyiv a much-needed lifeline as Russia ramps up its attacks.
Whether the deal materializes — and under what terms — remains to be seen. For now, Ukraine continues to seek both defensive weapons and international backing as the war enters its fifth year.
