President Donald Trump stated he is willing to support Ukraine with American air power as part of a post-war security agreement—so long as a peace deal is reached with Russia. Trump ruled out the deployment of U.S. ground forces, emphasizing that air-based assistance, such as fighter jets or missile defense systems, may be provided under a conditional framework.
The announcement came following a high-level summit with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and several European leaders, where discussions focused on future security guarantees for Ukraine.
Senator Marco Rubio is leading a trilateral working group with representatives from the United States, Europe, and Ukraine to draft a long-term security framework. This agreement would not include NATO membership but would potentially authorize U.S. air support to deter further Russian aggression. Trump’s position reflects a clear distinction between direct military involvement and strategic air-based deterrence.
According to administration officials, the White House is exploring operational details but confirmed that air support remains an “option and a possibility.” Trump emphasized the importance of European nations providing ground support while the U.S. contributes from the air, minimizing American troop exposure while strengthening Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
This approach aligns with President Trump’s long-standing “America First” philosophy—asserting U.S. strength through strategic leverage without entangling the country in extended foreign wars. Trump previously criticized open-ended military commitments, making his current stance consistent with efforts to avoid another ground war while maintaining global influence.
The proposal would mark a shift in U.S. policy by offering conditional security assistance without full NATO involvement. Supporters argue it balances global responsibility with national interest, while critics question whether limited U.S. engagement would deter future aggression effectively.
No formal agreement has been finalized, and further negotiations are expected in the coming weeks.
