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In a fiery announcement, former President Donald Trump confirmed that Ukraine will receive “billions of dollars” worth of American-made weapons — including advanced ‘Patriot’ air defense systems — with NATO stepping in to manage both the delivery and funding of the weapons package.
“They Want to Pay” — Trump Declares Europe’s Role
“European countries are REALLY enthusiastic about paying for all American weapons delivered to Kiev,” Trump said. “They WANT to.”
He added that NATO countries were “willing to go very far” in pushing back against Russia’s war in Ukraine and emphasized that Europe would fund the defense aid entirely.
Trump Waves His ‘Most Powerful Weapon’ at Putin
Speaking about Russian President Vladimir Putin, Trump accused him of continuing military operations in Ukraine during phone calls between the two leaders. “He fooled Bush, Clinton, Obama, and Biden,” Trump said. “But he didn’t fool me.”
In a dramatic moment, Trump brandished what he described as the “most powerful weapon ever built,” hinting at U.S. strategic capabilities while adding, “I just hope we don’t have to use it.”
NATO Chief Rutte Fully On Board
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte reportedly expressed strong support for the arrangement. “We are going to be sending them weapons and they’re going to be paying for them,” Trump said, quoting Rutte's enthusiasm for the joint operation.
“You want Ukraine to have what it needs to defend itself against Russia,” Trump said, “but you want Europeans to pay for it. Totally logical.”
Trump emphasized that the U.S. manufactures the “best equipment in the world,” and Europe recognizes the superiority of American defense systems. The U.S. military-industrial complex stands to benefit significantly from the arrangement, which may bypass congressional gridlock.
Secondary Tariffs on Russia Looming
In addition to the arms deal, Trump also issued a stern warning to Moscow: if provocations continue, “very severe” secondary tariffs would be imposed. “He’ll be hit very hard,” Trump said of Putin.
“Don’t Ask Me That” — Trump on Stopping Russia
Pressed by reporters on how far he would be willing to go to stop Russia from bombing Ukraine, Trump deflected: “Don’t ask me a question like that.” He later added that while American troops would not be involved, “a lot of people are dying.”
With Europe footing the bill, NATO managing logistics, and Trump threatening harsh economic and military consequences, the next chapter of U.S. involvement in the Ukraine conflict appears poised to escalate dramatically.
This is a developing story.