President Donald Trump announced plans to deliver a “major statement” on Russia, as the United States gears up to send more weapons to Ukraine through a newly brokered agreement with NATO allies.
“I think I’ll have a major statement to make on Russia on Monday,” Trump told NBC News in a phone interview, hinting at significant developments in U.S. foreign policy.
During the interview, Trump reaffirmed his tough stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin, condemning Moscow’s continued assaults on Ukraine. He also voiced support for a new sanctions bill against Russia, introduced by Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, a close political ally.
“They’re going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it’s at my option if I want to use it,” Trump said, emphasizing his executive authority in enforcing the sanctions.
Trump further revealed that a deal had been struck with NATO leaders, under which the U.S. would supply weapons paid for entirely by NATO. The arms, once delivered, would be handed over to Ukraine through NATO’s distribution channels.
“We’re sending weapons to NATO, and NATO is paying for those weapons, 100%,” Trump said. “What we’re doing is the weapons go to NATO, and NATO will then supply them to Ukraine.”
The President also noted he had no prior knowledge of a temporary halt on U.S. arms shipments to Ukraine, reportedly ordered by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. That pause has since been lifted, clearing the path for delivery of additional military support.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Kuala Lumpur, signaling ongoing diplomatic efforts despite rising tensions.
As Russia intensifies drone and missile strikes on Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, Trump expressed growing frustration with Putin’s aggression. The latest U.S. military aid package includes air-defense missiles, artillery shells, and other essential equipment—representing a renewed commitment to Ukraine’s defense despite previous hesitation.
The upcoming statement from Trump is expected to clarify the administration’s evolving strategy toward Russia and NATO’s role in countering aggression in Eastern Europe.
