Trump Warns Ukraine Against Hitting Moscow Amid Renewed Military Aid Commitments
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Ukraine against targeting Moscow, even as he pledged new military support to help the country defend itself against ongoing Russian aggression. Trump made the statement while addressing reporters on Monday, saying, “No, he shouldn’t target Moscow,” in reference to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The comment follows reports that Trump had privately asked Zelenskyy whether Ukraine could strike Russian cities such as Moscow or St. Petersburg if provided with long-range missiles. Clarifying the issue, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump’s question was rhetorical and not an endorsement of such military actions. She emphasized that Trump remains focused on ending the conflict, not escalating it. Despite rejecting the idea of Ukraine attacking Russian territory, Trump announced new U.S. military assistance, including advanced weapons systems and Patriot air-defense units. He confirmed that the supply of long-range offensive weapons like Tomahawk missiles is not currently under consideration. The new aid, according to Trump, would be delivered in collaboration with NATO allies, who are expected to share the financial burden. In a major diplomatic move, Trump also issued a 50-day deadline to Russia to reach a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine. He warned that failure to do so would lead to comprehensive economic sanctions on Moscow. A senior aide from Trump’s transition team stated that the timeline is intended to pressure Russia into negotiations before the conflict deepens further. Ukrainian officials have expressed cautious optimism but say they are still waiting for specifics on the promised support. “We welcome the continued partnership, but we need more clarity and timely delivery,” a senior Ukrainian military source said. Russia has dismissed Trump’s ultimatum, calling it political theater. A spokesperson from the Russian Foreign Ministry accused Trump of “encouraging reckless ambitions in Kyiv” and reiterated that Moscow’s military campaign would continue until its objectives are achieved. Trump’s recent statements and actions reflect an effort to balance support for Ukraine with a desire to prevent escalation that could provoke a broader international crisis. Analysts suggest his approach signals a shift toward more conditional military aid tied to diplomatic pressure, rather than open-ended support. The developments come at a time of intensified fighting in Ukraine’s eastern territories, where Russian missile and drone attacks continue to inflict damage on infrastructure and civilian areas. Ukrainian forces, in turn, are pushing for stronger defense capabilities to repel the ongoing assaults. The impact of Trump’s intervention—political, diplomatic, and military—remains to be seen in the evolving landscape of the conflict.
