**Trump Promises Major Statement on Russia, Reveals New NATO Weapons Deal for Ukraine**
In a surprise move, United States President Donald Trump has announced plans to make a “major statement” on Russia next week. Speaking to NBC News on July 10, Trump expressed his disappointment with Russia’s actions in the war-torn Ukraine.
“I’m disappointed in Russia, but we’ll see what happens over the next couple of weeks,” Trump said. He also hinted that he would have more to say about Russia on Monday, without elaborating on the nature of the statement.
Trump’s comments come as tensions between the US and Russia continue to escalate. The situation in Ukraine has been a major point of contention between the two superpowers, with Russia backing separatist forces in eastern Ukraine.
**New Deal for NATO and Ukraine**
In the same interview, Trump outlined a new arrangement involving the US, NATO, and Ukraine for the transfer of American weapons. According to Trump, the deal involves the US sending weapons to NATO, which will then provide them to Ukraine. The US will not be footing the bill for these weapons, as NATO has agreed to reimburse the full cost.
“We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%. So what we’re doing is the weapons that are going out are going to NATO, and then NATO is going to be giving those weapons [to Ukraine], and NATO is paying for those weapons,” Trump explained.
This new deal has been finalized during the recent NATO summit, where Trump signaled his support for sending more Patriot missiles to Ukraine. The arrangement is seen as a way to bypass some of the bureaucratic hurdles that have slowed down aid deliveries to Kyiv in the past.
**Conflicting Signals from Washington**
Trump’s latest remarks are just the latest in a series of conflicting and erratic signals from Washington on Ukraine. Just last week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unilaterally paused deliveries of critical military aid to Kyiv, including Patriot missile interceptors and precision-guided munitions. However, Trump has since denied any involvement in this decision and is now pledging to authorize additional weapons shipments to Ukraine.
This new deal may be an attempt by the Trump administration to regain credibility on Ukraine after a series of missteps. As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, it remains to be seen whether this new arrangement will make a difference.
**What’s Next?**
Trump’s “major statement” on Russia next week is sure to generate significant attention and speculation. Will he announce a significant shift in US policy towards Russia? Or is this just another example of Trump’s trademark unpredictability?
One thing is certain: the situation in Ukraine remains a major point of contention between the US and Russia, and any developments on this front are sure to have far-reaching consequences.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
