Ukraine suggests path forward as US weapons deliveries stall, Politico
Illustrative photo: Ukraine wants to buy US weapons with EU money (Getty Images)
Ukraine takes a new step to secure military aid - Kyiv intends to ask Washington to allow European countries to purchase American weapons for the Ukrainian army, informs Politico.
The idea emerged amid a decision by the Trump administration to freeze the delivery of already approved aid, including Patriot missiles and ammunition, according to six sources familiar with the negotiations.
New arms transfer mechanism: EU as intermediary
Several European countries are considering purchasing US weapons using their own defense budgets. These funds could count toward their NATO defense spending commitments.
However, implementing the scheme requires US approval. The issue is being discussed in Washington, but no final agreement has been reached yet.
Zelenskyy shifts strategy amid Russia's summer offensive
Amid a Russian advance near Sumy, Ukraine is being forced to find new ways to obtain weapons. Russia has seized several strategically important sites, and the front line continues to demand critical supplies.
"We don't have a choice," said one Ukrainian official. The reference is to weapons that have no equivalents outside the US.
Zelenskyy-Trump talks: Positive but inconclusive
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Donald Trump at the NATO summit in the Netherlands. According to participants, the talks were held in a positive atmosphere.
Trump did not rule out the possibility of delivering additional Patriot systems, but has yet to make a decision. Meanwhile, part of the aid has already been frozen, putting upcoming deliveries at risk.
Europe increases support, but can't replace the US
According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, in the first quarter of 2025, the EU countries, Canada, and the UK provided Ukraine with $23.5 billion. They plan to allocate another $40.6 billion by the end of the year.
However, Europe alone cannot compensate for the lack of US-made air defense systems. On Sunday, Russia launched 477 drones and 60 missiles at Ukraine, underscoring the critical need for systems manufactured exclusively in the US.
Earlier, the White House stated that the US has temporarily halted arms deliveries to Ukraine, including key Patriot missile systems.
The US State Department confirmed that Kyiv had been warned in advance about the suspension of assistance.
