Trump Announces Increased Military Support for Ukraine Amid Ongoing Conflict

President Donald Trump has announced an increase in military support for Ukraine, stating that more defensive weapons will be sent to help the country defend itself. This decision follows a temporary halt in military supplies and comes amid ongoing discussions with both Ukrainian and Russian leaders. Trump emphasized the importance of ensuring Ukraine's ability to protect itself as tensions escalate. The US has been a significant military donor to Ukraine since the onset of the conflict, raising concerns about the depletion of US stockpiles. As the situation evolves, Trump continues to navigate complex international relations while addressing defense priorities.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 8, 2025, 18:03 IST

US Military Aid to Ukraine Resumes

On Monday, President Donald Trump declared that his administration would enhance military support to Ukraine by sending additional defensive weaponry. This announcement came shortly after the White House had temporarily suspended certain military supplies. Trump emphasized the necessity for Ukraine to defend itself, stating, "We will send more weapons. They have to be able to defend themselves," during a press briefing before a dinner with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

He specified that the focus would be on defensive weapons, noting, "They’re getting hit very, very hard." This decision follows a report from a senior White House official indicating that some arms deliveries, including air defense missiles, were paused for a review of US military expenditures and foreign aid, a review sanctioned by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

White House deputy press secretary Anna Kelly explained that this action aligns with the administration's broader defense strategy. Some officials within the US government believe this decision also reflects the Pentagon's shift in focus towards China and preparations for potential conflicts in the Pacific, as highlighted by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby.

Colby stated, "The Department of Defense continues to provide the President with robust options to continue military aid to Ukraine, consistent with his goal of bringing this tragic war to an end." He added that the Department is thoroughly reassessing its strategy to achieve this goal while ensuring the readiness of US forces for other defense priorities.

Russia reacted positively to the pause in shipments, claiming—without evidence—that it was due to US shortages. On Monday, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed Trump's order to resume military assistance.

Parnell stated, "At President Trump’s direction, the Department of Defense will send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace." He also mentioned that the framework for evaluating military shipments globally remains in place and is crucial to the America First defense priorities.

Since the onset of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, the US has been the largest military supporter of Ukraine, providing various equipment such as air defense systems, drones, rocket launchers, tanks, and anti-armor weapons, raising concerns about the depletion of US military stockpiles. Trump had previously suspended all military aid to Ukraine in March following a contentious exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Aid resumed about a week later. The decision to increase deliveries comes after Trump's recent discussions with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and President Zelensky. Trump described his conversation with Putin as disappointing, noting there was "no progress" towards a ceasefire, while he characterized his talk with Zelensky as "very good."

Zelensky has been urging Western allies to bolster Ukraine's air defenses amid intensifying Russian assaults. On Friday, Russia launched a record number of drones against Ukraine, shortly after the Trump-Putin call. Zelensky remarked that his conversation with Trump was the "most productive" he has had. Trump also indicated on Friday that the US was considering Ukraine's request for additional Patriot missile systems. On Monday, he reiterated his discontent with President Putin, stating, "I’m not happy with President Putin at all."