Donald Trump reportedly urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to consider launching attacks on major Russian cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, according to a report released Tuesday by the Financial Times in the UK.
The alleged comments were made during a phone conversation between Trump and Zelensky on July 4, according to two individuals briefed on the exchange. Trump is said to have asked, “Volodymyr, can you hit Moscow? Can you also hit St. Petersburg?” In response, Zelensky reportedly said, “Definitely. We could if you give us the weapons.”
Trump expressed encouragement at the idea, reportedly explaining that inflicting damage on Russia could help bring them to the negotiating table by ensuring they “feel the pain.”
This approach represents a major shift from Trump’s earlier stated position of pursuing a swift resolution to the war and limiting American engagement in overseas conflicts. Despite this, there is still no clarity on whether the U.S. will supply Ukraine with long-range munitions like Tomahawk missiles, which would enable strikes far into Russian territory.
Reacting to the allegations, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said these were “serious statements that need to be examined.” He added that Russia does not respond to ultimatums. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov also commented, stating that while Moscow remains open to negotiations, it will not do so under threat.
{Matzav.com}