Trump and Zelenskyy Discuss Defence Spending at NATO Summit

Donald Trump has stated that the US may provide more air-defense missiles to Ukraine to defend against Russian attacks. This announcement followed a meeting between the US president and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at a NATO summit in The Hague. Trump expressed intentions to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin to resume peace negotiations.

Trump mentioned the possibility of sending Patriot air-defense missiles to Ukraine, acknowledging their scarcity but indicating efforts to make some available. NATO members are increasing defense spending in response to heightened Russian aggression.

Australia announced the deployment of 100 ADF personnel and an RAAF E-7A Wedgetail aircraft to Europe to assist in delivering humanitarian aid to Ukraine under Operation Kudu. Sanctions will be imposed on 37 individuals linked to Russia.

Trump referenced his previous meeting with Zelenskyy and noted a more positive outcome this time. Zelenskyy described the discussions as covering important issues, including the purchase of American air defense systems and potential drone production.

NATO countries agreed to raise defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035. Trump hailed this decision as historic, emphasizing the importance of military investment. The leaders expressed unity in the face of security threats, particularly from Russia.

Some NATO members, like Spain, expressed concerns about meeting the spending target. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the 2035 deadline unreasonable, leading to criticism from Trump over Spain's defense spending commitment.

According to the source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation.