Trump in Talks with Putin Amid Deliberations on Selling Long-Range Missiles to Ukraine
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to engage in discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This meeting is aimed at resolving issues arising from Ukraine’s request for long-range missiles. The exact date and location for this meeting, suggested to take place in Hungary, has not yet been confirmed.
Ukraine’s Request for Long-Range Missiles
On Thursday, Trump spoke with Putin to deliberate on Ukraine’s push for Tomahawk missiles. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is advocating for these weapons to enhance Ukraine’s military capabilities. The Tomahawk missiles would enable Ukrainian forces to conduct strikes deeper into Russian territory.
Zelenskyy believes that such military power could incentivize Putin to engage seriously in peace negotiations. Trump indicated his intention to address the situation with Putin as a means to pressure him to conclude the conflict in Ukraine. He stated, “Do they want to have Tomahawks going in that direction? I don’t think so.”
Upcoming Meeting Between Trump and Zelenskyy
Trump and Zelenskyy are scheduled to meet at the White House on Friday. This will be their fourth in-person discussion this year. Prior to the meeting, Trump confirmed he is considering the sale of long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine.
Analyst Mark Montgomery emphasized that while the Tomahawk missiles have a significant range of about 995 miles, the process of supplying them to Ukraine could take years and requires extensive training. In the meantime, Montgomery suggests utilizing Extended Range Attack Munitions (ERAM) and Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) for more immediate impact.
- Tomahawk Missile Range: 995 miles (1,600 kilometers)
- ERAM Range: 285 miles (460 kilometers)
- ATACMS Range: 186 miles (300 kilometers)
Pressure on Russia to Negotiate
Trump aims to leverage the possibility of missile sales to compel Russia into negotiations. He acknowledged the changing dynamics following the recent ceasefire in Gaza, suggesting this might facilitate a resolution in Ukraine. “We gotta get that one done,” he remarked, referring to the necessity of addressing the situation with Russia.
Implications of Missile Sales
Allowing Ukraine to acquire Tomahawk missiles has been described as a significant political and military decision. Trump remains undeterred despite Putin’s warning that such moves would cross a “red line” in U.S.-Russia relations.
In addition to missile discussions, Zelenskyy is likely to emphasize further economic sanctions against Russia during the meeting. Trump has previously focused on urging NATO allies to halt oil purchases from Russia, a vital resource for funding their military efforts.
Legislative Developments in U.S.-Russia Relations
Legislation intended to impose stricter sanctions on Russia is circulating in Congress. While Trump has not formally endorsed the new measures, recent interactions suggest growing interest from the White House in making these sanctions a cornerstone of its foreign policy strategy.
In summary, the upcoming meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy represents a critical moment. It hinges on potential military strategies to ensure Ukraine’s sovereignty while managing the intricate dynamics with Russia. These discussions will likely shape U.S. foreign policy objectives regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.
