On July 15, political analyst Volodymyr Fesenko joined the Center for Public Analytics “Vezha” to discuss Donald Trump’s recent statements and global reactions. Trump announced plans for additional military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems – news that generated strong positive reactions in Kyiv and much of Europe.
According to Fesenko, practical negotiations over arms supply and procurement are underway; while the details are not finalized, the process itself is a positive signal for Ukraine. He urges caution regarding specific figures cited by Trump, pointing out the former president’s often flexible approach to numbers in public statements. Nonetheless, the ongoing talks will likely result in at least one or two new Patriot batteries and more interceptors for Ukraine.
Fesenko also addressed the more controversial part of Trump’s remarks — his 50-day ultimatum to Russia. Both European and Ukrainian leaders question the delay: why wait, and does this hand the initiative to Putin? The expert views this as typical for Trump, who often keeps “windows of opportunity” for future negotiations, rather than burning all bridges. The Kremlin’s reaction was equally nuanced: Putin’s spokesman Peskov avoided direct criticism of Trump, while Medvedev played the role of a noisy propagandist.
Attention was given to rumors about transferring long-range weaponry to Ukraine, including Tomahawk missiles. Fesenko is skeptical about imminent deliveries but regards these information leaks as tools for psychological and political pressure on Russia. American signals are clear: if Moscow escalates, Western support for Ukraine will correspondingly intensify.
On Trump’s general approach to Russia, Fesenko believes his inner circle includes both hawks and pragmatists, hence the 50-day pause as an attempt to maintain a delicate balance. Only after this pause will real negotiations and more decisive actions become likely.
A striking feature was Trump’s admission that his wife Melania influenced his decision on helping Ukraine. Fesenko sees this as a reminder of the personal and emotional factors sometimes shaping political decisions.
The expert concluded: newly announced military aid and increased political pressure on Russia are crucial signals for all parties. Ukraine must continue to leverage every possible influence on Washington to ensure ongoing support in its war with Russia.
