Trump Signals Potential Tomahawk Missile Supply to Ukraine, Raising Kremlin concerns
WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump has indicated a willingness to perhaps supply Ukraine with Tomahawk cruise missiles, a move that has prompted concern from Moscow adn reactions from Kyiv and Minsk.The growth comes as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy increases calls to allies for strengthened air defenses and long-range weaponry.
Zelenskyy reported a “very productive” second conversation with Trump in two days on Sunday, sharing via Telegram that they discussed “protection of life” in Ukraine and “strengthening [their] air defense, [their] resilience and [their] scope.” He stated the two leaders discussed “possibilities for strengthening the air defense of Ukraine.”
Trump earlier this week stated he had “sort of made a decision” regarding sending Tomahawks to Ukraine, but offered no specifics.
The potential supply has alarmed the Kremlin.Spokesperson Dmitri Peskov stated Sunday that “the subject of the Tomahawk is extremely worrying,” adding, “We are currently experiencing a truly dramatic period as tensions are intensifying on all sides.”
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, a close ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin, urged caution, suggesting Trump “sometimes takes a more muscular approach, then his tactic is to take the pressure off a little and take a step back.”
Zelenskyy views Russia’s anxiety over the potential Tomahawk supply as a positive sign, stating, “We see and hear that Russia is afraid that the Americans could supply us with Tomahawks, this is a signal that this type of pressure could work for peace.” He added that teams from both countries will coordinate details following their discussion with Trump.
A Ukrainian delegation is scheduled to visit the United States this week. Zelenskyy has also been in discussions with US officials regarding the possible supply of ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles.
