NATO leader Mark Rutte is set to meet with US President Donald Trump on Monday, with Ukraine and its European allies eagerly anticipating Trump’s promised “important statement” regarding Russia.
In recent days, Ukraine, its allies, and the United States have been in constant negotiations over bolstering Ukraine’s faltering air defence systems as it struggles to fend off relentless and increasingly severe Russian airstrikes. The situation became more precarious when the US recalled a shipment of air defence weapons bound for Ukraine.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s refusal to cease hostilities has reportedly left mediator Trump increasingly impatient. Last week, he hinted that Ukraine might soon receive American weapons funded by European allies, and he is expected to deliver a “major” message on Monday. Ukraine and its supporters hope this includes new US sanctions against Russia. The American Congress has long prepared a substantial package of punitive measures that senators say only awaits Trump’s signature.
This meeting marks the first encounter between Rutte and Trump since the NATO summit in The Hague. Last Thursday, the NATO Secretary-General spoke with the President about supporting Ukraine. Following this, Trump hinted at potential new arms shipments.
Rutte will also meet with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, and members of Congress, likely including key Senate figures behind the sanctions package for Russia, according to NATO sources.
