Trump Backs Off Tomahawk Missiles for Ukraine After Putin Call

President Donald Trump expressed hesitation about sending Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine. This shift occurred after a lengthy phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The conversation significantly influenced the U.S. leader’s stance on military aid.

Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. He suggested that continued support for Ukraine could strain America’s own defense stockpiles. According to Reuters, Trump raised concerns that the United States might need those weapons for itself.

US Weapons Stockpile Concerns Take Center Stage

Trump directly questioned what the U.S. would do if it faced a conflict. He stated America needs Tomahawks and other equipment sent to Ukraine. The president emphasized that the country has already given a great deal.

President Zelensky countered by outlining Ukraine’s specific needs. He acknowledged his country has thousands of drones for its defense. However, he stressed that they lack long-range missile capability and require Tomahawks.

Putin’s Warning Alters Diplomatic Landscape

The change in Trump’s position is a direct result of his discussion with Putin. The Russian leader warned that sending the missiles would damage bilateral relations. Putin’s aide, Yuri Ushakov, confirmed the message was delivered clearly.

Trump now says he believes Putin wants to end the war. He described their two-and-a-half-hour call as covering many details. The U.S. president suggested a potential summit in Budapest could be arranged.

The situation leaves Ukraine in a precarious diplomatic position. The White House meeting included key Trump advisors like Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The new hesitancy on advanced weaponry marks a notable pivot in U.S. foreign policy.

The future of U.S. military aid now appears uncertain. This development regarding the Tomahawk missiles could reshape the conflict in Eastern Europe. The call with Putin has clearly recalibrated the White House’s approach to the war.

Thought you’d like to know

What are Tomahawk missiles used for?

Tomahawks are long-range, precision-guided cruise missiles. They are typically launched from ships and submarines. Their primary use is for striking high-value, well-defended targets from a safe distance.

Why does Ukraine want these specific missiles?

Ukraine seeks to target Russian supply lines and command centers deep behind the front lines. The Tomahawk’s range would allow strikes on strategically important locations currently out of reach. This capability could significantly alter the battlefield dynamics.

What did President Putin say to Trump?

Putin warned that sending the missiles would not change the situation on the ground. He stated it would, however, cause substantial damage to the U.S.-Russia relationship. This conversation directly preceded Trump’s more hesitant public comments.

Has the US provided other weapons to Ukraine?

Yes, the United States has been a major supplier of military aid to Ukraine for years. This includes artillery, air defense systems, and armored vehicles. The debate over Tomahawk missiles represents a new level of advanced weaponry under consideration.

Where might a Trump-Putin summit happen?

President Trump suggested Budapest, Hungary as a potential location. This would follow their extended phone conversation. No formal dates or plans for such a meeting have been officially confirmed yet.