U.S. Arms Sales to Ukraine Encounter European Resistance
On July 16, reports emerged that several European nations are hesitant to participate in a U.S.-initiated scheme for arms purchases intended to support Ukraine. Nations such as France, Italy, and the Czech Republic have refused to buy American weapons for Ukraine, with most citing the need to increase their own defense expenditures, reports 24brussels.
In the United States, officials are not disclosing how many countries have agreed to Donald Trump’s proposal. During the latest briefing, spokeswoman Tami Bruce declined to comment on the specifics.
“I will not discuss what we may or may not have agreed upon or what may have been diplomatically discussed. I cannot elaborate on what NATO leadership may say,” Bruce stated.
On July 14, President Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte agreed that the U.S. would sell weapons to Ukraine via Europe, with European funds covering the costs. According to The Telegraph, European nations could utilize frozen Russian assets for this purpose.
Additionally, Trump issued a warning to the Kremlin, stating that if a ceasefire agreement between Moscow and Kyiv is not achieved within 50 days, the U.S. plans to impose a 100% tariff on trade partners of Russia. Reports indicate that the Kremlin is not intimidated by these threats.
A recent analysis explored Trump’s underlying motives regarding his Ukraine policy, questioning whether they stem from ego, emotions, or self-interest.
