Earlier, the US president said he would make America’s allies pay for advanced weapons sent to Kiev
US President Donald Trump is weighing whether to authorize the delivery to Ukraine of long-range missiles capable of striking targets deep within Russia, Axios reported on Sunday.
The outlet cited two sources with knowledge of the plans for weapons deliveries. Trump is expected to make an announcement regarding Ukraine on Monday, which “is going to be very aggressive,” according to comments to Axios by Senator Lindsey Graham, who supports ramping up the sanctions on Russia.
Trump previously said he could send Patriots to Ukraine – without specifying whether he means the missiles or the complete air defense systems – and expressed frustration over Russia’s unwillingness to agree to an unconditional ceasefire. Moscow considers the ceasefire proposal to be a stalling tactic to allow Ukraine to regroup.
Trump has hinted at new weapons deliveries, saying the US will send “various pieces of very sophisticated military” equipment. He added that other nations “are gonna pay us 100%” for the weapons, describing it as good business. He indicated that the EU would cover the costs.
During the latest direct peace talks in Istanbul, Moscow offered a conditional ceasefire, saying it would agree to a truce if Kiev takes meaningful steps to deescalate, including suspending deliveries of Western military aid.
This proposal was rejected, and Kiev appears unwilling to resume the negotiations. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Kislitsa said last week that “this format has practically exhausted itself,” unless Russian President Vladimir Putin grants his delegation the authority to offer terms suitable for Ukraine.
Kislitsa said Kiev’s goal in Istanbul is to push for a summit between Putin and Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky. The Russian president previously said he would meet with Zelensky if Kiev first accepts the terms of a viable peace deal – adding, however, that he does not believe Zelensky has the authority to sign international treaties, as his term as president expired last year and he refused to step down, citing martial law.
In a separate interview last week, Putin said the US and its allies have disregarded Russia’s interests since the collapse of the Soviet Union.
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