UPDATE: President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Russia, stating he may send long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine unless the ongoing conflict is resolved swiftly. This significant threat, delivered aboard Air Force One en route to Israel, escalates tensions as the war rages on.
During the flight, Trump remarked, “I might say, ‘Look: if this war is not going to get settled, I’m going to send them Tomahawks,'” emphasizing the weapon’s offensive capabilities. He added, “Tomahawks are a new step of aggression,” signaling a potential shift in U.S. military support for Ukraine.
This warning follows Trump’s conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where the possibility of supplying Tomahawks was discussed. The Ukrainian president described the call as “very productive,” hinting at ongoing negotiations about enhancing Ukraine’s military defenses amidst Russian attacks on its energy infrastructure.
Trump’s remarks come at a critical juncture, as Russia has launched recent assaults on Ukraine’s power grid, aiming to cripple its energy supply before winter. In response, Russia has expressed “extreme concern” regarding the U.S. potentially providing Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov labeled the topic of Tomahawks as “of extreme concern,” indicating the Kremlin’s alarm at the prospect.
Trump noted that he is contemplating a firmer stance against Russian aggression. He stated, “I think it’s appropriate to bring up” the issue of Tomahawk missiles, highlighting the increasing pressure he may place on Vladimir Putin if negotiations fail.
In an interview with Fox News following his call with Trump, Zelenskyy indicated that discussions about long-range precision strike weapons are ongoing, stating, “I’m waiting for the president to say yes.” He underscored the importance of U.S. support, which is critical for Ukraine’s defense capabilities.
Trump’s tougher rhetoric marks a notable shift from his previous comments urging Ukraine to make concessions. He now believes Ukraine can reclaim all territories lost to Russia, a perspective he has not publicly held before. A senior Ukrainian delegation is set to visit the U.S. this week, further emphasizing the urgency of military discussions.
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely. Trump’s pronouncements suggest a potential escalation in the U.S. involvement in the conflict. He stated, “I really think Putin would look great if he got this settled,” underscoring the need for immediate action.
As tensions mount, the implications of Trump’s statements could significantly alter the dynamics of the conflict. The global community awaits further developments as both countries brace for what could be a pivotal moment in the ongoing war.
