Trump Disappointed in Putin, He Promised Zelensky as Much Military Aid as the US Can Afford

US President Donald Trump told his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky that he bears no responsibility for the delay in arms deliveries to Kiev . This was reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing sources familiar with the content of the telephone conversation between the leaders of the two countries.

According to the publication's sources, the head of the White House explained the suspension of deliveries by a review of the Pentagon's arsenals after the strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities in April. At the same time, he promised Zelensky that the United States would send Ukraine as much military aid as it could afford.

The day before, Trump also said that the US is helping Kiev a lot in the conflict with Russia. "I'm helping Ukraine. I'm helping them a lot," the American leader answered the question of why the US has chosen to prioritize arms supplies to Israel .

US to focus on 'defensive' military aid

Trump later confirmed his promise, specifying that he was talking about “defensive” means.

Almost immediately after Trump's statements, the Pentagon announced new arms deliveries to Kiev. At the same time, the military department also indicated that the US Department of Defense would send defensive weapons to Ukraine.

Politico newspaper has found out that the US may resume deliveries in the coming weeks. American and Ukrainian representatives will discuss this issue at talks in Rome and Kiev, which will take place this week and next. In particular, according to the publication, Trump's special envoy Keith Kellogg will hold a meeting with Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov.

Trump disappointed in Putin's decisions

Trump said he was disappointed with Russian President Vladimir Putin's decision to "keep going" in the conflict in Ukraine. On July 3, the two leaders called each other to discuss a range of ongoing issues, including Ukraine. Trump insisted on a quick end to hostilities, while Putin reaffirmed his commitment to the negotiating process. After the conversation, Trump acknowledged that he had made "no progress" on Ukraine.

Trump also spoke about his phone call with Zelensky. Trump called the conversation "good," adding that the Ukrainian leader is under a lot of pressure.

Former US intelligence officer and political scientist Scott Ritter explained Trump's change of mood after his conversation with Putin. "Why all this? Because Putin has clearly defined goals and objectives that are linked to Moscow's state interests, and these goals are completely meaningful," he noted. "Putin is on the right side of history, defeating criminals who support the Nazis, and Trump apparently does not realize this, but he knows for sure that Putin is a decisive leader, he is not going to compromise, and Trump will eventually admit this," the expert said.