President Donald Trump declared on Monday that the United States will resume sending weapons to Ukraine, reversing a surprise pause in deliveries ordered just last week. The decision comes as Ukraine faces intensified Russian airstrikes and mounting civilian casualties, prompting urgent calls for bolstered defenses.
“They’re getting hit very hard now,” Trump said during a White House dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. “We have to send more weapons—primarily defensive ones—so they can protect themselves.” The Pentagon later confirmed that, under Trump’s direction, additional defensive arms shipments would resume to support Ukraine while pursuing “lasting peace,” according to spokesman Sean Parnell.
Last week’s halt, which included Patriot missiles, precision-guided GMLRS, Hellfire missiles, and Howitzer rounds, sparked concern among Ukrainian officials and allies. The Pentagon cited dwindling US stockpiles as the reason, part of a broader review of global military aid to prioritize “America First” defense needs. The pause disrupted Ukraine’s ability to counter Russia’s escalating air assaults, with over 1,270 drones, 39 missiles, and nearly 1,000 glide bombs launched in the past week alone, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported.
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Russian attacks killed at least 11 civilians and injured over 80, including seven children, on Monday, underscoring the dire situation. Zelenskyy, who spoke with Trump on Friday, emphasized the need for enhanced air defenses, particularly Patriot systems, to protect Ukrainian cities.
Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, noting a lack of progress toward a ceasefire despite recent talks. He has resisted imposing new sanctions on Russia’s oil industry but authorized Senator Lindsey Graham to advance a bill proposing 500% tariffs on nations buying Russian oil, a move that could impact major economies like China and India.
The White House framed the earlier pause as a “standard review” of global aid, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth tasked to ensure alignment with US interests. Meanwhile, Ukraine has secured deals with European allies and a US defense firm to boost drone production, aiming to offset troop shortages and counter Russia’s long-range Shahed drones.
The renewed commitment follows a turbulent period in US-Ukraine relations, including a brief aid suspension in March after a heated meeting with Zelenskyy. While Trump’s latest pledge signals continued support, the Pentagon’s ongoing review leaves some uncertainty about the scope and timeline of future shipments.
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