In a dramatic escalation of military support, U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will supply Patriot air defense missiles to Ukraine, a critical move aimed at bolstering the country’s defenses against intensified Russian assaults. This announcement comes as Trump prepares to meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington, where discussions are expected to center on expanding military assistance to Ukraine amid a backdrop of increased aggression from Moscow.

Trump confirmed that while the exact number of missiles has yet to be determined, the European Union will foot the bill, allowing the U.S. to provide these vital defense systems at no cost. “They need protection,” Trump stated, emphasizing the urgency of the situation as he condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin’s deceptive tactics—”he talks nice and then he bombs everybody in the evening.”

The situation on the ground in Ukraine is dire. Reports indicate a sharp increase in Russian attacks, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealing that over 1,800 drones and 83 missiles have been launched against the country in just the past week. Major cities like Kyiv are under constant threat, suffering repeated bombardments that aim to terrorize the civilian population and overwhelm air defenses.

Trump’s announcement is part of a broader shift in U.S. policy towards Ukraine, with indications of a forthcoming “sledgehammer package” of sanctions against Russia and potentially more offensive weaponry for Ukraine. As NATO leaders convene, the urgency for enhanced military support has never been greater, underscoring a critical moment in the ongoing conflict.

As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Washington and Kyiv, where the stakes are higher than ever. The world watches as Ukraine braces for what may be a pivotal turning point in its defense against Russian aggression.