President Donald Trump met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House on Monday, unveiling a new security initiative that includes a NATO-funded military aid package for Ukraine and a direct warning to Moscow.
The meeting marked Rutte’s first official visit to Washington since assuming the NATO leadership earlier this year. Talks focused on transatlantic defense cooperation and continued support for Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia.
During a joint appearance in the Oval Office, Trump announced plans to supply advanced weapons systems to Ukraine through NATO financing. The package includes Patriot air defense systems and other critical military equipment.
New Military Support for Ukraine
During a joint appearance in the Oval Office, Trump announced plans to supply advanced weapons systems to Ukraine through NATO financing. The package includes Patriot air defense systems and other critical military equipment.
“We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying 100% for those weapons,” Trump said, emphasizing that European allies — not American taxpayers — would cover the costs.
The aid will be facilitated using the Presidential Drawdown Authority, allowing for faster delivery without the need for new congressional approval.
50-Day Cease-Fire Ultimatum to Russia
Trump also issued a direct ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling on Moscow to agree to a cease-fire in Ukraine within 50 days. Failure to comply, Trump warned, would result in new sanctions and tariffs targeting Russian oil exports.
“I don’t want to say he’s an assassin, but he’s a tough guy,” Trump said, reiterating his critical stance on the Russian leader.
Rutte’s Statement on Alliance Unity
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte supported the initiative and stressed the importance of collective European contributions.
“Germany, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands, and Canada all want to be part of this — this is only the first wave,” Rutte said, highlighting plans for broader alliance coordination.
He praised U.S. leadership while underlining Europe’s responsibility to increase its own defense spending and operational commitments.
