Trump Plans Offensive Weapons, Sanctions Against Russia, Ukraine

US President Donald Trump is set to announce a new, more aggressive plan to arm Ukraine, including sending offensive weapons such as long-range missiles and Patriot air defense systems, marking a significant shift from his previous stance of limiting support to defensive weapons. This initiative is expected to be presented during high-level meetings in Washington with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte and other officials, signaling stronger US and NATO support for Ukraine amid escalating Russian aggression. Trump emphasized that Ukraine will pay fully for the sophisticated military equipment, framing the aid as both strategic and a business transaction. Additionally, Trump is considering imposing tough secondary sanctions targeting countries that trade oil with Russia, including China, India, and Turkey, aiming to exert greater economic pressure on Moscow. These moves underscore a hardening US position against Russia and an intensified effort to support Ukraine’s defense capabilities as the conflict enters a more volatile phase. The strategy reflects growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin and a commitment to countering his actions more forcefully.