Trump, NATO Secretary General Meet Amid Ukraine Weapons Plans

President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington this week following Trump's announcement to resume and expand weapons supplies to Ukraine amid its ongoing conflict with Russia. The discussions will also involve key U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and focus on plans to sell advanced weaponry to NATO allies, who can then transfer these arms to Ukraine, facilitating quicker delivery compared to direct shipments from U.S. factories. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham highlighted that the conflict is approaching a critical turning point, with Trump signaling a renewed commitment to aiding Ukraine's defense, including potential legislation aimed at crippling Russia's oil industry and imposing further sanctions. Trump’s forthcoming “major statement on Russia” comes as Ukraine faces intensified Russian attacks, including record drone and missile strikes that have significantly increased civilian casualties. While Trump had previously been reluctant to support prolonged military aid, recent developments suggest a strategic shift toward bolstering Ukraine’s resistance and pressuring Russian President Vladimir Putin towards negotiation. These moves reflect growing bipartisan and international pressure on the Trump administration to take a more active role in the Ukraine conflict.