Trump Announces Weapons for Ukraine, Threatens Russia with Tariffs

During a meeting on Monday, U.S. President Donald Trump stated the United States would provide weapons to Ukraine through NATO. He also issued a warning of "severe tariffs" against Russia if a ceasefire agreement was not finalized within 50 days.

The announcement of the weapons agreement was made during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in the Oval Office. Trump indicated that the weapons would be manufactured by the United States and that Ukraine would be responsible for the costs.

Trump further elaborated on the potential economic consequences for Russia, mentioning "very severe tariffs" and "secondary tariffs" of approximately 100 percent if a deal was not reached within the specified timeframe. Later clarification from U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated that "economic sanctions" were the intended meaning behind the threat of "secondary tariffs."

Following the Oval Office meeting, Trump confirmed the agreement with NATO allies, stating it was fully approved. He emphasized the intention to supply a substantial amount of various weapons to Ukraine, with immediate delivery to the conflict zones, and that Ukraine would cover the entire cost.

Additionally, Trump mentioned that some Patriot systems would be delivered to Ukraine within days. He explained that European countries possessing Patriot systems would transfer them to Ukraine, with their arrival expected shortly.