rki.news
WASHINGTON, July 11 – U.S. President Donald Trump announced a fresh initiative to send advanced Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine through NATO, with the alliance expected to cover the costs.
Speaking to NBC News, Trump stated, “We’re sending Patriots to NATO, and NATO will distribute them,” emphasizing that “NATO is going to reimburse the full cost.” The move follows a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who confirmed having a “positive dialogue” with Trump about expediting air defense deliveries.
Zelensky recently appealed for 10 Patriot systems after a surge in Russian drone and missile strikes. He said Germany had agreed to fund two systems, Norway one, and other European nations may contribute.
The U.S. had temporarily paused shipments of key weapons, including Patriot interceptors and artillery shells, raising concern in Kyiv amid intensified Russian bombardments. Over 700 drones struck Ukraine in a single night this week, with Zelensky warning of further escalation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said he urged allies like Germany and Spain to transfer existing Patriot batteries to Ukraine, adding the U.S. would help finance replacements. A Patriot system formerly based in Israel will be refurbished and deployed to Ukraine soon.
Despite Trump’s previous stance on reducing U.S. aid to Ukraine, his administration appears to recognize the urgency of enhanced air defense support. The Patriot systems, known for their advanced radar and high interception capability, are seen as crucial for Ukraine’s layered defense strategy.
Meanwhile, Trump said he would make a “major statement” on Russia next Monday. Rubio, who recently met Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, echoed Trump’s frustration at stalled peace efforts, signaling that new ideas for conflict resolution may be underway.