President Donald Trump on 16 July outlined a new framework under which European NATO allies would donate key weapons, notably Patriot air-defence batteries, to Ukraine and then purchase American replacements. The concept, sketched during an Oval Office appearance with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, marks a sharp shift in Trump’s previously sceptical stance on arming Kyiv. Trump said some Patriot systems could arrive in Ukraine “within days,” but officials in Washington and European capitals told Reuters the initiative remains a broad outline. Negotiations have yet to determine which countries will surrender which systems, and when. NATO intends to channel the transfers through its Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine mission in Germany. Six nations — Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the Netherlands and Canada — were cited by Rutte as willing participants, while officials identified Germany, Greece and Spain as additional candidates. A meeting of Patriot-owner states is expected next week to pin down commitments. European diplomats said many capitals first learned of the plan at Trump’s press conference, fuelling uncertainty over costs and timelines. Kyiv welcomed the policy reversal, and U.S. officials estimate Ukraine could ultimately receive 12-13 Patriot batteries, though full delivery may take up to a year. Some EU leaders expressed irritation that Europe would shoulder most of the expense, underscoring persistent tension over burden-sharing even as talks accelerate on how to reinforce Ukraine’s defences.