Trump: U.S. Will Sell, Not Give Away, Weapons to Ukraine

TDT | Manama

Email: ashen@newsofbahrain.com

U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in Washington this week, holding wide-ranging talks on the war in Ukraine, U.S. military support, and broader security guarantees.

Trump opened the press conference by pointing to what he called improvements in public safety in the U.S. capital. He recounted a story from a friend whose son, a professional golfer, felt safe enough to go out to dinner in Washington for the first time in years.

“A year ago, he wouldn’t have dared,” Trump said. “Now restaurants are busier than they’ve been in a long time. The media says I’m trying to be a dictator, but all I want is security for our people.”

On Ceasefires and Peace Talks

When asked about the possibility of a ceasefire in Ukraine, Trump said he supported the concept in principle but emphasized strategic risks.

“I like the idea of a ceasefire because it means people stop dying immediately. But sometimes it benefits one side over the other,” he explained. “Look at the 60 peace deals I made — none of them relied on ceasefires. We can negotiate peace while fighting continues. That’s often the reality of war.”

He stressed that his administration was committed to “strong protection” for Ukraine, though he stopped short of endorsing NATO membership outright.

“We haven’t finalized anything on NATO, but Ukraine will have very strong security guarantees. That’s part of what we’re working on today.”

On U.S. Support for Ukraine

Trump reiterated that U.S. support would not come in the form of “blank checks” but structured defense sales.

“We’re not giving away weapons — we sell them,” he said. “America makes the best systems in the world. Patriots are nearly 100% effective. NATO buys from us, and Ukraine will get the equipment it needs, but they will pay for it.”

Zelensky expressed gratitude, stressing that the support was essential not only for the war effort but also for Ukraine’s long-term security.

“This is not just about fighting today — it is about rebuilding our army and strengthening our defenses for the future,” he said. “Our cooperation with the United States, especially on systems like the Patriots, is critical.”

On U.S. Elections

In a shift from foreign policy, President Trump also addressed domestic politics, vowing to end mail-in voting in the United States.

“Mail-in ballots are corrupt. You can’t have a real democracy with them,” he said. “We’re preparing an executive order to end mail-in voting. Paper ballots are secure, faster, and cheaper. Without secure borders and secure elections, you don’t have a country.”

Looking Forward

Despite differences in emphasis, both leaders projected unity on the importance of continued cooperation. Trump underlined that European leaders were also engaged in discussions.

“Today, leaders from across Europe are here with us. They want to help. And together, we’re going to find a way forward,” the President said.