Summary
The White House stated that former President Donald Trump asked the Ukrainian president about the possibility of Ukraine striking Moscow, but claimed it was just a question and not an encouragement to escalate the conflict. Trump has announced plans to send weapons to Ukraine and threatened new tariffs on Russia if peace is not achieved in 50 days.
Key Facts
- Trump asked the Ukrainian president if Ukraine could strike Moscow, according to the White House.
- The Financial Times reported that Trump encouraged Ukraine to escalate strikes if the U.S. provided long-range weapons.
- Trump plans to send weapons to Ukraine and threatened 100% tariffs on Russia’s trading partners without a peace deal.
- The weapons deal may include defensive Patriot missiles, though exact details are unknown.
- Trump expressed disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating he was "not done" with him.
- Trump had a contentious call with Putin before asking Zelensky about striking Moscow.
- Russia increased drone and missile attacks in Ukraine, with over 230 civilian deaths in June.
- Two rounds of ceasefire talks between Russia and Ukraine occurred this year, with no further meetings scheduled.
