President Donald Trump announced during a phone interview with NBC News on Thursday night that NATO has reached a new deal allowing U.S. arms to flow to Ukraine through NATO member countries, with NATO covering the full cost of the weapons. ‘We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%,’ Trump stated, adding that the agreement was reached during last month’s NATO summit. The arrangement allows for the transfer of U.S. military equipment to Ukraine without direct financial burden on the United States, as NATO allies would reimburse the U.S. for the cost of the arms.
This development comes amid a surge in Russian military activity in Ukraine, including a series of attacks that have targeted civilian infrastructure and population centers. On Thursday, Russian strikes caused significant damage, killing nine and injuring 37 others, with at least one strike targeting a maternity hospital in Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the attack, stating that it was a ‘targeted strike against life’ and highlighted the vulnerability of civilian populations under the ongoing conflict. ‘Women in labor with children, women after surgery. Fortunately, there were no children among the victims. Russia targets life. Even where it is just beginning,’ Zelenskyy said in a statement. Ukrainian officials reported that no children were among the casualties in the maternity hospital strike.
The U.S. military has also been adjusting its aid strategy for Ukraine. After the Pentagon placed a temporary halt on some previously pledged defensive arms shipments due to concerns over U.S. stockpiles, reports emerged that Ukraine was actively seeking alternative sources for critical weaponry. This prompted U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to suggest a ‘new and different’ approach to ending the war with Russia. While Rubio did not elaborate on the specifics of the new strategy, he indicated that it would be presented to President Trump, who has been increasingly vocal in his criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the war in Ukraine.
Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz also signaled support for Ukraine by pledging to purchase additional Patriot air-defense systems from the U.S., making them available for Ukrainian forces. Trump, who has called for a major statement on Russia, stated that he plans to address the conflict publicly, describing the situation as one where ‘things are going to happen.’ He also reiterated his stance on the Pentagon’s earlier decision to halt some arms shipments, suggesting that the move had not been his approval and that the aid had resumed for Ukraine. Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict continues to place immense pressure on both the U.S. and its allies, with the implications of the war potentially affecting global markets and diplomatic relations with Russia.
Russian forces have continued their aggressive operations in Ukraine, with increased frequency and intensity of attacks. The recent maternity hospital strike has drawn international condemnation, with the situation highlighting the humanitarian impact of the war. As NATO members consider further military and financial support for Ukraine, the geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and Russia remain a critical issue in global affairs. The situation is expected to remain closely monitored as both sides continue to escalate their military capabilities and diplomatic posturing.