Vitaly Portnikov analyzes the news that US President Donald Trump discussed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky the possibility of strikes on Moscow and St. Petersburg. According to the Financial Times and Washington Post, Trump directly asked Zelensky whether Ukraine could carry out such attacks. Zelensky responded that Ukraine would need appropriate weaponry from the US to do so.
At present, Ukraine does not possess missiles capable of reaching those cities, but if the United States supplied Tomahawk missiles, it would become a real possibility. The White House spokesperson confirmed that this conversation took place, while accusing the media of exaggeration and stressing that Trump was not advocating attacks, but merely exploring the possibilities.
Portnikov emphasizes that such a question is not random—it sends a strong signal to Moscow. According to the author, Trump is demonstrating readiness for further escalation and assessing the consequences of potentially providing Ukraine with more advanced weapons. The Kremlin is already considering its response: Putin's spokesperson, Peskov, said the Russian president will respond personally.
Portnikov draws a parallel with Trump's policy toward Iran, recalling when a US ultimatum was followed by Israeli strikes on major Iranian targets. He suggests a similar escalation could unfold with Russia. He notes that this conversation is expected to significantly impact decision-making in Moscow and among Putin’s advisors.
Portnikov concludes that even the official confirmation of such a discussion is already influencing global politics and the future course of the war between Ukraine and Russia.
