July 15. Host Valerii Kolchuk discusses the aftermath of Donald Trump's sensational statement regarding military support for Ukraine. Trump's words—"Putin wants war, so we will arm Ukraine"—have generated a wave of discussion both in the US and Europe.
During the night, Ukrainian drones targeted Russian regions including Lipetsk, Voronezh, and Rostov. Explosions and drone debris caused damage in the city of Yelets and downtown Voronezh, raising questions about the effectiveness of Russian air defenses. Kolchuk calls for donations to support Ukraine's 66th Brigade, emphasizing the urgent need for equipment like generators and radios.
Following Trump's statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had a phone call with Trump, thanking him for his support and discussing ways to better protect Ukrainian citizens from Russian attacks. According to The Washington Post, Trump encouraged Ukraine to increase pressure on Putin, including strikes beyond Moscow. Zelensky reportedly replied that Ukrainian forces could do more with additional weaponry—and new US-supplied ATACMS missiles could play an important role, although their range is limited. Other types of long-range missiles produced with Germany may also help.
Crucially, the US has shifted its aid approach. US NATO representative Metiev Whitaker confirmed that America would stop direct military aid, with Europe and Canada now bearing the costs while the US supplies the equipment. Trump has reportedly convinced Germany to send Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, a significant new development, even if actual delivery times may take months rather than days.
Despite these moves, some in the US press suggest Trump still believes Russia has the advantage in the conflict but is motivated to pressure Putin toward negotiations. Trump's strategy of giving Putin "50 days" before new sanctions has sparked debates about whether this empowers Moscow or sets the stage for future talks. Meanwhile, the US Senate has delayed passing strict new sanctions on countries trading with Russia amid Trump’s latest remarks, preferring to leave the decision to him as president.
European leaders and NATO officials continue to coordinate, with Germany and Norway planning to purchase new Patriot systems for Ukraine. This marks an increasingly prominent European role in supporting Ukraine militarily. Yet, questions remain about the effectiveness and resolve behind Trump’s high-profile announcements, with analysts watching for concrete action rather than just bold rhetoric.
As China and North Korea show signs of deeper cooperation with Russia, speculation mounts that Trump’s "50-day deadline" is meant to coincide with his expected meeting with China’s Xi Jinping this fall. Only time will tell if this marks a real turning point in the war or another pause in the diplomatic process.
