US rushing to deliver weapons to Ukraine under Trump plan, says Whitaker
US Ambassador to NATO Matthew Whitaker (Getty Images)
The United States is seeking to rapidly supply weapons to Ukraine under President Donald Trump's plan for European-funded arms purchases. Officials are also considering the possibility of selling Patriot air defense systems from US stockpiles, according to Barrons.
"We are all moving with haste to facilitate this and get this done, and, you know, I think things are actually moving very quickly. But I can't verify a date that this will all be completed (the weapons deliveries to Ukraine)," Whitaker said.
According to him, negotiations are currently underway regarding the possible sale of Patriot systems that are already part of the US military arsenal.
"We're never going to put the United States at a strategic disadvantage, and we're going to make sure that we have everything we need. At the same time, I think we all acknowledge the desperate requirements that Ukraine currently, immediately needs on the battlefield and to protect their cities," the ambassador noted.
He added that among the options being discussed is the immediate transfer of air defense systems by European countries to Ukraine, with the possibility of replacing those systems later — primarily through purchases from the United States.
Europe to buy US weapons for Ukraine
The United States and NATO have reached an agreement that allows for the delivery of American weapons to Ukraine, financed by European countries.
Under the deal, Ukraine is expected to receive $10 billion worth of US-made weapons. These arms will be purchased from the United States by European nations.
Several countries — including Sweden, Denmark, and Germany — have already agreed to contribute.
However, Hungary, Czechia, Italy, and France have chosen not to join the initiative.
According to NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, the agreement could provide Ukraine with a large number of air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition.
Media reports say the US will not supply weapons to Ukraine directly. Instead, NATO member states will deliver equipment from their own stockpiles and later replace it — mainly through purchases from the US.
Trump has announced the planned delivery of 17 Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.
He stated that the first Patriot units are already being shipped to US allies, which means Ukraine could receive them soon.
However, the German government has denied President Trump's claim that Patriot systems are already being sent to Ukraine.
