Trump says US will immediately send defensive weapons to Ukraine following Pentagon freeze

President Donald Trump has announced that his administration will be sending defensive weapons to Ukraine in order to help the war-torn country defend itself against Russia’s ongoing invasion. This decision comes after the Pentagon recently paused deliveries of such weapons. The move signifies a significant turnaround in policy and highlights the escalating conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Russian attacks on Ukraine have resulted in the deaths of at least 11 civilians and the injury of over 80 others, including seven children. Trump emphasized the need for Ukraine to be able to defend itself, stating that they are currently facing intense attacks and require additional defensive weapons. He mentioned that the weapons being sent will primarily be defensive in nature.

With Russia now controlling nearly a fifth of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea and several regions, the situation on the ground remains dire. Trump’s efforts to broker a ceasefire have so far been unsuccessful, and he expressed his dissatisfaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin for escalating military actions.

In response to Trump’s announcement, the Pentagon stated that it would be sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine as per the president’s directive. This decision aims to ensure that Ukrainians can defend themselves while efforts continue to secure a lasting peace. The Pentagon spokesman highlighted the importance of evaluating military shipments globally and reaffirmed the administration’s defense priorities.

Ukraine has been requesting the sale of more Patriot missiles and other defense systems to enhance its capabilities against Russian air strikes. Last week, the Pentagon halted critical weapons shipments to Ukraine, including Patriot missile interceptors and artillery shells. Despite this pause, the administration’s decision to resume weapons deliveries underscores the urgency of the situation in Ukraine.

Meanwhile, Russia launched its largest aerial attack of the war, using drones and missiles in a significant escalation of hostilities. The Kremlin responded to Trump’s comments by stating that they needed time to clarify the specifics of U.S. weapons aid to Ukraine. While acknowledging ongoing European weapons deliveries to Ukraine, the Kremlin expressed appreciation for Trump’s efforts to facilitate direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine.

In a separate development, Russia’s transport minister Roman Starovoit was found dead in an apparent suicide shortly after being dismissed by Putin. His firing followed widespread travel disruptions due to the threat of drone attacks from Ukraine. Russian media suggested that his dismissal could be linked to an investigation into the embezzlement of state funds in the Kursk region.

The decision to send defensive weapons to Ukraine reflects the escalating tensions in the region and underscores the importance of international support for the country’s defense. As the conflict between Ukraine and Russia intensifies, the role of external actors, including the United States, will be crucial in shaping the outcome of the ongoing crisis.