On July 16, Valerii Klochok summarized the main events regarding the war in Ukraine and highlighted new statements from Donald Trump. Trump claimed that a ceasefire could be reached before 50 days, suggesting the 51st day would be critical for Russia. He emphasized he did not recommend Ukraine strike Moscow or St. Petersburg and that he would not provide long-range missiles.
Over the past night, Ukraine was attacked by 401 aerial targets, including a ballistic missile and 400 Shahed-type drones. Air defense shot down 198 drones, and another 145 were suppressed by electronic warfare. Kryvyi Rih, Kharkiv, and Vinnytsia were main targets. A 17-year-old was injured in Kryvyi Rih, and seven people were injured in Vinnytsia.
Trump clarified he does not plan to supply Ukraine with long-range weapons via NATO in order not to provoke Russia. However, he warned that new sanctions and tariffs could be imposed if Russia refuses peace talks after 50 days. Trump also stated that Patriot missiles are already heading to Ukraine, paid for by the EU and Canada.
European countries responded differently: the Czech Republic and France will not pay for US arms, while Germany and the UK agreed to fund the deliveries.
The New York Times confirmed a new aid package including Patriot systems, missiles, and ammunition. Senator Lindsey Graham announced possible new sanctions on buyers of Russian oil if fighting continues beyond 50 days. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte supported pressure on China, India, and Brazil through sanctions.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas demanded the US share costs for Ukrainian arms and reported widespread use of chemical weapons by Russia.
Negotiations on Iran's nuclear deal are also highlighted: if no agreement is reached by the end of August, the EU and US will resume sanctions.
Fundraising for Ukraine's 66th brigade continues. The author urges support for the Ukrainian military.
