Trump says he will consider giving Patriot to Ukraine, but calls it "very expensive"

U.S. President Donald Trump said that Ukraine has requested the supply of American Patriot air defense systems. He said this during a conversation with journalists.

He said he would consider it, but said it was "very expensive.".

"They would like this. They asked for it. You know, it's a very rare phenomenon because a lot of systems have been sent to Ukraine. But they would like to. I know they have made a request. We have to look at it. It's very expensive. Very expensive system," Trump said .

He also added that it was a shame that the US has to spend so much money on a war that would never have happened if he had been president.

"You know, when you're talking about a system like this, very complex, with a huge amount of money, and they're doing it because they want to prevent death. They are taking a big hit. A very big hit. So, we are looking at it," the president said .

Trump also commented on the massive attack on Ukraine on July 9, when Russia launched more than 700 drones and 13 missiles.

"I try to let people know that I am not happy about what is happening. This is a war that should not have happened... It has to be stopped. Up to 7,000 people are dying every week on both sides," Trump said .

• on July 7, Trump, during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House, announced his intention to increase military aid to Ukraine.
• Following Trump's statement, the Pentagon officially confirmed additional arms shipments to Ukraine.
• On July 8, Axios reported that Trump promised to immediately send 10 Patriot missiles to Ukraine.
• On July 9, the WSJ reported that Trump is considering sending an additional Patriot system to Ukraine.