Former US President Donald Trump reiterated his disappointment with Russian leader Vladimir Putin over the continuation of the war in Ukraine during an interview with the BBC, but stated he is not ready for a complete break in relations. “I’m disappointed, but I haven’t closed the door on him,” Trump said, adding, “but I am disappointed.”
Pressed on how he would end what he termed the Russian-Ukrainian “bloodbath,” Trump offered only, “We’re working on it.” He recounted his last phone call with Putin: “We had a great conversation. I told him: ‘That’s good, I think we’re ready to get close to ending it (the war).’ And then he bombed a building in Kiev.” Trump claimed credit for NATO “becoming the opposite” of “obsolete,” asserting his pressure ensured members now “pay their bills.” He expressed satisfaction with the “respect” he received from leaders, including Germany, France, and Spain, at the recent NATO summit, though he suggested they were “just trying to be nice” after acknowledging the difficulty of winning a US presidential election after a term out of office.
Trump offered a positive assessment of relations with the UK under Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer, whom he will meet privately in Scotland later this month, praising him as a model for trade and tariff agreements despite labeling him “a liberal.” He expressed optimism about London’s future global role and the consolidation of Brexit, despite an initially “messy” handling. Trump also reaffirmed his “great respect” for King Charles III, stating he took no offense at recent Canadian sovereignty remarks made by the King in Ottawa: “He had no choice, but he spoke very well and was respectful,” adding that the US is now “negotiating with Canada” for a “very good” deal.
In a potential significant escalation, *The Washington Post* reported Trump is considering sending Tomahawk missiles, capable of striking Moscow and St. Petersburg, to Ukraine. While not included in current aid packages, Tomahawks could be supplied later to increase pressure on Putin. The report also indicates Washington may authorize Ukraine to use its existing 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at their maximum 300 km range, potentially enabling strikes on military bases, airfields, and supply depots deep inside Russia. Additional ATACMS missiles could also be included.
Meanwhile, EU High Representative Josep Borrell expressed confidence in an imminent political agreement on the 18th sanctions package against Russia. “We are very close, I hope it happens today, today or tomorrow at the latest,” Borrell stated upon arriving at the Foreign Affairs Council. He welcomed “positive” signals that the US recognizes Moscow does not want peace, necessitating increased pressure: “I hope they will proceed with their sanctions or tariffs.” Borrell confirmed the option of a price cap on Russian oil remains “alive” and under discussion within the EU package, even though the US will not participate.
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