At the conclusion of the 2025 NATO Summit in The Hague, former U.S. President Donald Trump declared a “historic breakthrough” in alliance unity and pledged to initiate talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing Ukraine war. His remarks came after a high-profile meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where both leaders reportedly discussed defense cooperation and peace prospects.
“Time to End the War”: Trump’s Message to Putin
Speaking at a press conference, Trump said he would “speak to Vladimir Putin, see if we can get it ended”, referring to the war that has raged since 2022.
“I think he’d like to see an end to this. I do,” Trump said, adding that the conflict has become “a mess” for Russia.
He also hinted at the possibility of sending additional Patriot missile batteries to Ukraine, calling them “very hard to get” but crucial for Kyiv’s defense.
NATO’s New 5% Defense Spending Target
Trump praised NATO’s adoption of a 5% GDP defense spending target, calling it a “historic” move that would strengthen the alliance’s deterrence capabilities.
“It’s not a ripoff. We are here to help them protect their country,” he said, softening his earlier criticism of NATO’s Article 5 mutual defense clause.
Meeting with Zelenskyy: “Couldn’t Have Been Nicer”
Trump described his meeting with Zelenskyy as “very nice” and “substantive,” with discussions reportedly covering air defense systems, joint drone production, and U.S. support for Ukraine’s sovereignty.
Zelenskyy later confirmed the talks, stating that Ukraine is ready to purchase American air-defense systems and support U.S. weapons manufacturers.
Political and Diplomatic Implications
Trump’s renewed engagement with NATO and his pledge to speak with Putin mark a notable shift in tone, especially amid criticism of his past ambivalence toward the alliance. His remarks also come as Russia intensifies aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities, prompting urgent calls for diplomatic resolution.
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