Four EU Countries Bail Out of Paying for Trump’s Weapons for Ukraine
UKRAINE, JUL 17 – The US shifts Ukraine weapons costs to European NATO members amid refusals by France, Italy, Hungary, and Czechia, with only Germany and Denmark confirmed to pay, officials said.
- On July 17, the US State Department declined to name participating countries, following NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte's claim that eight were willing but only Germany and Denmark confirmed.
- Acknowledge Matt Whitaker admitted Europe cannot produce the weapons Ukraine needs, as spending reluctance grows over reliance on US defense sector.
- On July 16, Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala announced his country would not participate, citing a focus on ammunition, joining France, Italy and Hungary in declining participation.
- These initial arms comprise Patriot systems already in storage awaiting shipment, with Trump announcing the missiles are en route to Ukraine from Germany, noting readiness for immediate dispatch.
- Partnership discussions will focus on timeline and replenishment details soon, while German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said `Germany wants to make an important contribution to this.
17 Articles
17 Articles
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Four EU countries bail out of paying for Trump’s weapons for Ukraine
At least four countries are already bailing out of commitments to pay the US for weapons supplies for Ukraine, raising a question mark over the level of support Ukraine can expect now that the Trump administration has withdrawn.
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