Asger Risom
President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, asking whether long-range weapons could hit cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg.
President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Ukraine to strike deep into Russian territory, asking whether long-range weapons could hit cities like Moscow and St. Petersburg.
A Radical Turn in Trump’s Ukraine Policy
During a July 4 phone call, Trump asked President Zelensky if Ukraine could target Moscow and St. Petersburg with U.S.-supplied weapons. The exchange highlights a dramatic shift from Trump’s previous pledge to de-escalate foreign conflicts.
“Absolutely. We Can, If You Give Us the Weapons”
According to two sources, Zelensky confirmed Ukraine’s capability—if provided with the necessary long-range systems. Trump reportedly backed the strategy, describing it as a way to pressure Russia into negotiations.
Anger After Putin Call
Trump’s conversation with Zelensky came just one day after what he called a “disappointing” phone call with Vladimir Putin. Sources say Trump expressed deep frustration with the Russian leader’s refusal to consider a ceasefire.
Long-Range Weapons on the Table
Following the call, Trump’s team provided Ukraine with a list of possible long-range systems—such as Tomahawk missiles and ATACMS—that could be transferred via European allies to bypass U.S. congressional hurdles.
Ukraine’s Deep Strikes Already Underway
Ukraine has already used U.S.-supplied ATACMS missiles to hit Russian-occupied areas and even targets inside Russia. However, their current range does not reach cities like Moscow, fueling Kyiv’s demand for longer-range capabilities.
Kremlin Reacts: “A Theatrical Ultimatum”
Russia dismissed Trump’s encouragement as posturing. Dmitry Medvedev mocked the remarks on social media, while the Kremlin warned of “global consequences” if Western missiles are used to strike deep inside Russia.
Nuclear Tensions Rise
Following the U.S.-Ukraine discussions, Russia updated its nuclear doctrine—explicitly naming the U.S., UK, and France as potential preemptive strike targets in response to deep Ukrainian attacks backed by Western weapons.
A Strategy to Force Peace… or Escalate Conflict?
While Trump insists the goal is to force Russia to the negotiating table, critics warn that such a strategy risks provoking a broader war. The future of U.S. support, and global stability, may hinge on how far Ukraine takes this new mandate.
