Trump Promises More Patriot Systems for Ukraine, Criticizes Putin

US President Donald Trump announced plans to send additional Patriot air-defense systems to Ukraine, signaling a significant shift in Washington’s strategy towards Russia. This announcement coincides with Trump’s commitment to deliver a “major statement” regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which has seen heightened Russian military activity in recent weeks.

During remarks made on July 13, 2023, Trump did not specify the number of Patriot systems to be sent to Kyiv, although Ukrainian officials have repeatedly emphasized the critical need for such defenses against Russian air strikes. “We will send them Patriots, which they desperately need, because Putin really surprised a lot of people,” Trump stated at a military base outside Washington. He expressed discontent with Vladimir Putin, noting, “He talks nice and then bombs everybody in the evening…I don’t like it.”

In his comments, Trump pointed out that the European Union is financially supporting these efforts, stating, “We’re not paying anything for it, but we will send it.” He did not identify specific EU nations involved in the initiative. Earlier in July, the Trump administration had announced a halt to some military assistance to Ukraine, yet Trump’s recent remarks highlight a growing frustration with Putin’s refusal to engage in cease-fire discussions.

Trump’s recent criticism of Putin marks a notable departure from his previous tendency to speak favorably of the Russian leader. Historically, Trump has described Putin as “smart” and claimed to have a “very good relationship” with him. However, he recently expressed disappointment, saying, “I’m disappointed in Russia, but we’ll see what happens over the next couple of weeks.”

Potential Policy Changes and Military Support

While details of the new policy remain unclear, reports suggest that Trump may announce a more aggressive approach which could include offensive weapons. Currently, the United States has supplied three Patriot missile batteries to Ukraine under President Joe Biden’s administration, while Ukraine has received an additional four from other sources, including three from Germany.

Patriot systems are among the most advanced air-defense technologies, capable of intercepting both ballistic and cruise missiles. Discussions surrounding the procurement of more Patriot systems have also emerged, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz indicating that Berlin might consider acquiring them from the United States to support Ukraine.

On the diplomatic front, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte is scheduled to meet with Trump on July 14 to discuss Ukraine and other pertinent matters. In addition, Trump’s special envoy to Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, arrived in Kyiv for discussions with key Ukrainian officials.

Support for Ukraine is gaining momentum within the United States Congress. Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent ally of Trump, suggested that an increase in military aid to Ukraine could be imminent. “In the coming days, you’ll see weapons flowing at a record level to help Ukraine defend themselves,” he stated. Graham emphasized that one of Putin’s major miscalculations was underestimating Trump, asserting, “You just watch, in the coming days and weeks, there’s going to be a massive effort to get Putin to the table.”

Senator Richard Blumenthal echoed Graham’s sentiments, highlighting a growing bipartisan consensus around utilizing some of the $300 billion in frozen Russian assets held by G7 countries to aid Ukraine. “It’s time to do it,” Blumenthal remarked, signifying a potential shift in how the U.S. and its allies might mobilize resources to support Ukraine.

The situation in Ukraine remains dynamic, with Russian forces intensifying missile and drone attacks this year. Reports indicate that the frequency of these attacks has increased each month since December, particularly focusing on urban centers such as Kyiv, which have faced significant bombardment while Russian ground operations continue amidst heavy casualties.

As the conflict evolves, the international community watches closely for further developments regarding military support and diplomatic engagements aimed at resolving the ongoing crisis.