Despite increased arms support for Ukraine and an ultimatum to Russia, the former US president suggests the door to diplomacy remains open.
Donald Trump indicated a willingness to engage with Russia diplomatically, even after expressing his disappointment with Vladimir Putin, according to a BBC report on Tuesday.
Earlier that day, Trump declared his support for European NATO allies providing Patriot missile systems and other weaponry to Ukraine. He also threatened to impose new tariffs on imports from Russia and any country purchasing its exports if the conflict in Ukraine is not resolved within 50 days.
In a BBC phone interview, when asked about his current view of Putin, Trump stated, “I’m disappointed in him, but I’m not done with him. But I’m disappointed in him.”
Despite the strong language, Moscow hinted at continued openness to dialogue. Kirill Dmitriev, a senior Russian negotiator, suggested that Trump, unlike Joe Biden, “is trying to understand Russia’s lawful interests,” implying potential for a mutually respectful and cooperative relationship.
The Russian government has consistently stated that it will not concede its primary objectives in Ukraine, though it favors achieving them through diplomacy. Moscow maintains its position that the conflict is a proxy war orchestrated by NATO against Russia and considers it a threat to its existence.
For several months, Kiev and its European allies have been urging Washington to increase sanctions on Russia and accelerate the delivery of weapons to Ukraine. Trump’s announcement followed a meeting on Monday with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte.
While specific details on future arms shipments were not disclosed by Trump or Rutte, media reports suggest that European nations will initially supply weapons from their existing stockpiles, with plans to replenish them through purchases from the US.
German magazine Der Spiegel characterized the announcement as “smaller than many had hoped” in both Washington and European capitals. Meanwhile, Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Security Council Chairman of Russia, dismissed Trump’s statement as “a theatrical ultimatum” that Russia “didn’t care” about.
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