Trump Softens on Putin, Backs NATO Weapons Sales to Ukraine

President Donald Trump has shifted from his earlier skepticism of NATO's strategy to actively supporting Ukraine with significant military aid, including billions of dollars worth of weapons such as Patriot missile defense systems. Despite prior promises to quickly end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Trump now backs NATO's demands for Russia's full withdrawal from Ukrainian territory and has threatened 100% secondary tariffs on countries trading with Russia if a ceasefire is not reached within 50 days. His change in stance comes amid growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom Trump criticizes for continuing missile attacks on Kyiv despite diplomatic talks. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte praised the U.S. weapons deal as a pivotal moment that could pressure Putin into negotiations, emphasizing the broader international impact of secondary sanctions. Alongside military support, Trump advocates trade as a tool for peace, signaling a combined economic and defense approach to international diplomacy. This evolving policy also coincides with rising trade tensions, including threats of tariffs on the EU and Mexico, reflecting a more complex engagement with global alliances and adversaries.