Trump grants Kyiv Patriots licences: What’s next in the Russia-Ukraine war?

At the conclusion of the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, US President Donald Trump announced new arms sales to NATO allies and Ukraine. These sales will include advanced air defense systems, signaling an increase in military partnership. Trump stated that as European nations rebuild their militaries, American equipment will be the primary beneficiary, projecting $3 billion in new defense investment between European and US contractors. A significant part of this includes a planned Lockheed Martin Patriot missile maintenance facility in Europe. This development suggests a potential shift in Trump's stance towards the alliance, following previous criticisms.

At a NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, member states pledged €70 billion in military aid for Ukraine in 2026, with commitments to sustain similar levels in 2027. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended the summit, advocating for continued support. U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about peace progress and offered to help Ukraine produce Patriot missile systems. Zelenskyy also secured bilateral agreements for drone deals and other support packages from various allies. The summit concluded amidst ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine, highlighting the continued need for air defense.

At the NATO summit in Ankara, Turkey, Donald Trump informed Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Ukraine might be granted a license to manufacture Patriot missile interceptors. This potential diplomatic win for Kyiv aims to address Ukraine's struggle against increasing Russian missile threats. However, Trump's promise was vague, and he admitted to not consulting the companies that produce the Patriot system. The article highlights that manufacturing these complex and expensive munitions would be a lengthy and costly process, with no clear timeline for increased production. Trump also indicated that the US has limited Patriot interceptors in its own stockpile, contributing to a global shortage.

At a two-day NATO summit in Ankara, the US president is reportedly in a combative mood, contributing to divisions among leaders. Key areas of contention include Russia's war in Ukraine, defense spending, and the US-Israel conflict in Iran, where a ceasefire appears to be faltering. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is engaging in talks with leaders to garner support for Ukraine against Russia's ongoing war. Meanwhile, NATO allies are presenting a united front against what the article describes as an unreliable US. The discussion, featuring The Guardian's Shaun Walker, explores the implications of these dynamics for Ukraine.

At the NATO summit in Ankara, Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with US President Donald Trump, who agreed to stay in touch after Starmer steps down. Starmer stated that maintaining this connection is part of his responsibility to the UK-US relationship. Trump thanked the UK for its defense spending contributions, placing it second over the last decade in real terms. Despite recent tense exchanges, Starmer indicated they had "got along really well" over the longer term. Starmer also declined to comment on Trump's recent criticisms of the UK and his own leadership, instead highlighting the country's improved standing. He also addressed potential future defense spending policies under a potential Andy Burnham administration.