Trump, NATO Chief Meet Over Ukraine War

Trump, NATO Chief Meet Over Ukraine War
US to send Patriot missiles and other defence systems to Kyiv
Trump shifts stance, says Putin is “a problem”

By Grateful Ogunjebe

US President Donald Trump is set to deliver what he describes as a “major” statement on Ukraine, following his meeting with NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, at the White House.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Trump had earlier revealed plans to send “various pieces” of advanced military equipment to Ukraine, including the highly sophisticated Patriot air defence missile systems.

The move comes amid rising tensions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom Trump referred to as “a problem,” accusing him of speaking peace in the morning and launching bomb attacks by nightfall.

Trump, who had previously adopted a more restrained approach to Ukraine’s military support, appears to have shifted his stance. He did not disclose how many Patriot systems would be sent but confirmed the US would recover its costs.

According to Trump, the US has been exploited for decades through unfair military and trade partnerships. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he said, “We will no longer accept the many-years-long free ride. It’s time to do what’s right for America.”

His comments came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met with US envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, in Kyiv. Zelensky described the meeting as “productive” and focused on Ukraine’s ongoing defence needs.

Back in Washington, Trump and NATO Chief Rutte are expected to discuss the ongoing war, defence spending, and long-term NATO commitments. The visit marks Rutte’s second trip to the White House this year.

Trump has also been pressuring US allies to increase military spending. NATO’s 32 member states have now agreed to raise defence budgets to 5% of GDP by 2035, a move partly attributed to Trump’s persistent criticism.

The former US President has long argued that America shoulders an unfair share of NATO’s military expenses, and he has been vocal in demanding that other nations pay their “fair share.”

The planned announcement follows Trump’s tense Oval Office meeting with Zelensky in February, where he warned the Ukrainian leader to strike a deal with Russia “or they’ll pull back.”

Meanwhile, Washington is reportedly preparing to present Russia with a new 30-day ceasefire proposal in a bid to halt hostilities, but Trump has indicated doubt about Putin’s sincerity in any peace negotiations.

Trump’s remarks today are expected to further outline how the US plans to strengthen Ukraine’s defence posture amid ongoing Russian airstrikes.