ANKARA, Turkey — U.S. President Donald Trump announced Wednesday at a NATO summit that the United States will grant Ukraine a license to manufacture Patriot air defense systems, marking a significant development in Kyiv’s ongoing conflict with Russia. The move responds to a long-standing Ukrainian request for the technology, which has been pivotal in countering missile attacks during the more than four-year war.
Speaking alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump praised Zelenskyy’s leadership and Ukraine's military efforts. "He’s been very effective, and he’s had the best equipment because he’s had our equipment," Trump said, highlighting the strategic importance of the Patriot missile systems, which intercept Russian missiles and drones targeting civilian infrastructure across Ukraine.
The decision to allow Ukraine to produce Patriot systems represents a notable shift for the U.S., which had previously resisted permitting foreign manufacture of the advanced defense technology. “We’re going to give a license to you to make Patriot missiles,” Trump stated, adding that Ukraine can now “make them yourself,” addressing Kyiv’s concerns over receiving sufficient quantities. Trump acknowledged the U.S. has not yet informed the manufacturer of this decision, but expressed confidence that it would be resolved.
While Trump pledged ongoing support, including sending “some” Patriot interceptor missiles from U.S. stockpiles, concerns remain over dwindling inventories after years of aid to Ukraine and recent deployments during the U.S.-Israeli conflict with Iran.
Trump and Zelenskyy’s public show of unity marked a departure from earlier tensions between the leaders. Trump noted a “good relationship” had developed and suggested a possible diplomatic resolution to the conflict might be forthcoming. “I think a deal on ending the war is on the horizon,” he said, promising the U.S. would “work on some kind of security package” to assist Ukraine.
The announcement came amid a NATO summit characterized by mixed tones. Earlier, Trump criticized European allies for their reluctance to support U.S. initiatives, including the Iran conflict, singling out Spain as “a terrible partner in NATO” and threatening trade repercussions. Nevertheless, he praised the collective progress of NATO members in increasing defense spending to meet alliance targets as the U.S. reduces its military presence in Europe.
Separately, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte endorsed recent U.S. airstrikes on Iranian targets following attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, describing the American response as "absolutely necessary." Trump, however, expressed skepticism about ongoing negotiations with Iran, calling them “a waste of time” while indicating talks might continue despite his doubts.
The decision to license Patriot missile production to Ukraine underscores an intensification of U.S. military support amid continuing hostilities, reflecting Washington’s strategic commitment to Kyiv’s defense capabilities while navigating complex geopolitical challenges involving Europe and the Middle East.