WASHINGTON – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at making a significant statement about Russia on Monday, just before his scheduled meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte in Washington. The development comes as top Republican leaders prepare a sanctions package against Moscow over the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Speaking on Sunday, Trump expressed impatience with the nearly three-year-long conflict and confirmed plans to supply Ukraine with the much-needed Patriot air defense systems. However, he did not specify the quantity of weapons to be delivered. “We will provide them with very advanced military equipment, and they will pay us in full — it’s business for us,” Trump added.
Earlier this month, the White House reversed its previous decision to pause the delivery of certain weapons to Ukraine. A new agreement now allows NATO to purchase U.S. weapons and deliver them directly to Kyiv. This shift aligns with broader Western efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s defense amid increasing Russian offensives.
NATO’s official statement confirmed that Secretary-General Rutte will be in Washington on Monday and Tuesday. During his visit, he will also meet with U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio to discuss regional security and defense cooperation.
Trump, who has previously avoided expanding sanctions against Moscow, now appears to be reconsidering. When asked whether he would announce sanctions against Russia, he replied vaguely: “Let’s see what happens tomorrow.” He also expressed frustration with President Putin, saying, “He talks about peace but bombs people at night.”
Although Trump claimed in January he could end the war quickly through talks with Putin, Russia has consistently rejected recent U.S. and Ukrainian ceasefire proposals. With pressure mounting in Congress, Trump may now shift his stance and support tougher measures against Moscow.