Trump and Rutte announce new arms deal for Ukraine, threaten sanctions on Russia
U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte announced a new weapons deal for Ukraine on Monday in Washington. According to officials, European countries will cover the cost of the military aid. Trump also warned that Russia would face heavy sanctions if it fails to reach an agreement with Ukraine within 50 days, RTL reported.
The announcement came as Rutte visited Trump for the first in-person meeting since the NATO summit in The Hague. The weapons package includes air defense systems, missiles, and ammunition, all financed by European countries, Rutte said.
Sitting beside Rutte during a press conference, Trump praised the Dutch NATO chief, saying, “Mark is highly respected by everyone who knows him, especially European countries,” RTL reported. Trump then expressed his frustration with Russia. “I am very unhappy with Russia. I am disappointed in President Putin. We will impose severe tariffs if they do not reach a deal with Ukraine within 50 days,” he said.
Last week, Rutte had a phone conversation with Trump discussing support for Ukraine, after which Trump hinted at new arms shipments. During the Washington visit, Rutte also met with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
