**US Weighs Sending New Patriot System to Ukraine**
In a significant development, US President Donald Trump has expressed interest in supplying Ukraine with another Patriot air defense system. This move comes as Kyiv continues to face relentless attacks from Russian forces, which have targeted Ukrainian cities with drones, missiles, and aerial bombs.
Speaking at the White House on July 9, Trump said that his administration is “going to have to take a look” at meeting Ukraine’s request for additional Patriot systems. He acknowledged that Ukraine has asked for more air defense capabilities to prevent civilian casualties, which he described as a crucial goal.
**A Shift in US Policy?**
This development marks a shift in the US administration’s stance on providing military aid to Ukraine. Just days earlier, the Pentagon had announced a pause in deliveries of key military equipment, including Patriot interceptors and precision-guided munitions. Trump later denied involvement in this decision and expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin for failing to pursue a ceasefire.
The proposed transfer of a new Patriot system would be the first major new weapons shipment since the US administration took office in January. This move has been met with enthusiasm from Ukraine, which has repeatedly urged Western partners to expand air defense coverage as Russian forces continue to target its cities.
**A Complex Proposal**
According to Axios, the White House is working on a deal under which Germany would sell a Patriot battery to Ukraine, with the US and European allies sharing the cost. A U.S. defense official told the Wall Street Journal that Trump has asked the Pentagon to explore options for supplying Ukraine with more arms, including whether additional Patriots could be sourced from allied countries.
This proposal highlights the complexities of international cooperation in the face of conflict. As Washington weighs its options, Kyiv remains under relentless pressure from Russian forces.
**Background and Context**
Patriot batteries have been a cornerstone of Ukraine’s layered air defense system, with three systems delivered by the US and three more provided by Germany. A European coalition has contributed an additional battery, although not all systems are currently operational due to maintenance rotations.
If approved, this new transfer would mark Trump’s first major military package to Ukraine not initiated by the previous Biden administration. This development has significant implications for Ukraine, which continues to face the daunting challenge of defending its skies against Russian aggression.
**What’s Next?**
As the US weighs this proposal, Kyiv remains on high alert, awaiting a response from Washington. The international community watches with bated breath as the fate of this proposed transfer hangs in the balance. One thing is clear: the stakes are high, and the outcome will have far-reaching consequences for Ukraine, Russia, and the broader world.
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