Former President Donald Trump has shifted his stance on the Ukraine conflict, signaling a more active engagement. He denied taking sides, insisting his aim is to halt the humanitarian crisis. Trump set a 50-day deadline for Russia to seek peace or face economic sanctions, while proposing new weapons deliveries to Ukraine, including Patriot missile systems. These weapons are to be funded by European allies, despite some, like Germany and France, expressing surprise or reluctance.
Trump's overture has not significantly rattled Russia, which remains steadfast in its military objectives. The Kremlin criticized the Western arms influx, viewing it as a continuation of hostilities. Internally, the Republican Party has largely aligned with Trump's new direction, reversing their previous opposition to funding Ukrainian defense.
Amid these developments, Trump faced allegations of encouraging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to attack Russian cities, which he denied. Trump's approach has drawn mixed responses from Europe, with skepticism about his commitments. This evolving geopolitical chess game underscores Trump's influence over his party and the complexity of international diplomacy in the Ukraine conflict.
