Trump says NATO-paid Patriot missiles shipping out to allies, Ukraine can receive them soon
US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Illustrative Photo: Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump announced that the first shipments of Patriot air defense systems are already on their way to American allies, meaning Ukraine will receive them soon, according to Reuters.
Speaking to reporters at Andrews Air Force Base on July 15, Trump addressed the issue of arms deliveries to allies. He confirmed that the initial Patriot systems are being sent to European partners.
“They're coming in from Germany and then replaced by Germany. And in all cases, the United States gets paid back in full,” Trump stated.
At the same time, according to Donald Trump, the US will not incur any financial losses, as all expenses are being covered by NATO and the European Union.
“NATO's going to pay us back for everything. In some cases, we're going to be paid back by countries of the European Union directly. We're always getting our money back in full,” Trump said.
He clarified that some of the weapons are being shipped from Germany, which will later replenish its own stocks.
During his speech at Andrews Air Force Base, Trump also emphasized that America will not become directly involved in combat operations in Ukraine. He added that this approach is saving thousands of lives every week, referring to soldiers on both sides of the conflict.
On July 14, the US and NATO signed an agreement under which American weapons will be delivered to Ukraine, with the costs covered by European partners.
Ukraine is expected to receive up to $10 billion worth of US military equipment.
According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the agreement includes a substantial supply of air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition for Ukraine.
