US President Donald Trump informed French President Emmanuel Macron that Russian leader Vladimir Putin “wants to take everything,” referencing an anticipated new Moscow offensive in eastern Ukraine, according to Axios citing a source directly familiar with the conversation. This followed Trump’s July 3rd phone call with Putin, during which the Russian President reportedly stated he planned another escalation in eastern Ukraine within 60 days to reach administrative borders of regions where Russia holds significant presence.
Axios further reports Trump intends to announce a new plan today to arm Ukraine, including offensive capabilities. The initiative will be presented during a Washington meeting between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. Sources indicate the plan will likely include long-range missiles capable of striking deep into Russian territory, including Moscow.
“While I haven’t finalized the number,” Trump stated regarding Patriot missiles, “the Ukrainians will get some because they need protection. The EU will pay; we will pay nothing, but we will send them.” He also expressed strong criticism of Putin: “I’m very disappointed. He speaks gently and then bombs everyone that evening.”
Axios states the July 3rd call with Putin, where the escalation plan was allegedly revealed, contributed to Trump’s decision to send new weapons. Confirming this move, Trump announced yesterday he would send Patriot missiles to Ukraine.
US Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg arrived in Kyiv this morning, as confirmed by Ukrainian Presidential Advisor Andriy Yermak via Telegram. “We warmly welcome US Special Representative Keith Kellogg to Ukraine,” Yermak wrote, adding, “Peace through strength is President Trump’s principle, and we support this approach.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky later met with Kellogg, describing their talks as “productive.” They discussed defense cooperation, sanctions against Russia, pathways to peace, strengthening Ukrainian air defense, joint weapons production, and defense procurement with Europe.
The Kremlin responded to Kellogg’s visit, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating it is “very important” for Russia that the US envoy continues mediation efforts towards a Russian-Ukrainian solution. “Primarily, it is Kellogg himself and his Ukrainian counterparts who should have expectations,” Peskov told journalists via Interfax. “For us, it is very important that Kellogg continues his mediation efforts and offers his mediation services.”