President Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy for a working lunch in Washington on August 25, 2023. This meeting comes as discussions intensify regarding the potential supply of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, aimed at bolstering its military capabilities in the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Both leaders have engaged in conversations over the weekend, and a high-ranking Ukrainian delegation, led by Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko, is expected to arrive in Washington prior to their meeting to prepare for the discussions. Key topics on the agenda will include air defense systems, additional military aid from the United States, and the prospects for Russia’s return to negotiations.
Zelenskiy has actively lobbied for the provision of US-produced Tomahawk missiles, which can strike targets up to 2,500 kilometers away. Ukrainian officials assert that these missiles would only target military installations, despite Russian concerns about their potential use. On Monday, Zelenskiy indicated to reporters in Kyiv that he had shared a detailed request with Trump regarding the number of Tomahawk missiles needed for Ukraine’s defense efforts.
Moscow has responded to these developments with warnings of severe consequences. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev stated that providing Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles could escalate tensions significantly, suggesting that the distinction between conventional and nuclear-capable missiles becomes unclear once they are launched. Medvedev cautioned on Telegram about the implications of such actions, hinting at a potential nuclear response from Russia.
Trump has acknowledged that he is contemplating the transfer of Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine but has also mentioned the possibility of discussing this matter with Russian President Vladimir Putin. On Sunday, he stated, “If the war is not settled, we may very well do it.” He added that he did not foresee Russia wanting Tomahawk missiles aimed in their direction.
The implications of supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles are significant, as Putin has claimed that such a move would irreparably damage US-Russian relations. Zelenskiy emphasized that Ukraine would only utilize these missiles for military objectives, assuring that civilians would not be targeted in Russia.
In addition to the missile discussions, Ukraine and the United States are nearing a significant drone technology agreement. European diplomats view this potential deal as crucial for maintaining US engagement and support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
As the situation continues to evolve, the outcome of the upcoming meeting between Trump and Zelenskiy could have far-reaching effects on military strategy and international relations.
