Former U.S. President Donald Trump has made his position on the Ukraine war clear once again — and it could have major consequences for Kyiv. Speaking at a press conference, Trump said he would not approve sending Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine if he returns to power, and instead called on both Ukraine and Russia to “stop the war immediately.”
A Clear No to Tomahawk Missiles
Tomahawk missiles are long-range precision weapons that can strike deep into enemy territory. Ukraine has been seeking advanced missile systems from the United States to strengthen its defense against Russia’s invasion.
However, Trump firmly rejected that idea. “I would not give Tomahawks. I would not give weapons that make this war bigger,” he said. Trump added that his goal would be to push both sides to the negotiating table rather than support further escalation.
This statement was a setback for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who has repeatedly asked for stronger U.S. support and advanced weapons to protect his country’s cities and infrastructure.
A Call to End the War Quickly
In his speech, Trump also said he wants the war to end “within 24 hours of taking office.” He argued that continued fighting hurts both countries and puts the entire world at risk of wider conflict.
“I would bring both sides together and make a deal. This war should stop immediately. It’s bad for everyone,” Trump said. While he did not explain exactly how he would make this happen, his words suggest a strong focus on negotiation rather than military support.
A Difficult Position for Kyiv
For Ukraine, Trump’s comments highlight a potential challenge ahead. The United States has been its biggest military and financial backer since the start of the war in 2022. Advanced weapons and billions of dollars in aid have helped Kyiv defend its territory.
If Trump returns to the White House and limits U.S. military support, Ukraine could face more pressure to negotiate with Moscow from a weaker position. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly said they will not accept any deal that forces them to give up land to Russia.
Moscow Welcomes Trump’s Words
Russian officials were quick to respond to Trump’s remarks. Some in Moscow described them as “a sign of realism,” welcoming his call to stop the war through talks. The Kremlin has long pushed for negotiations on its terms, which include keeping control over parts of Ukrainian territory.
However, Trump has not endorsed Russia’s demands. He has only said that both sides should come to the table and find a solution quickly.
Uncertainty for the Future
Trump’s comments have added a new layer of uncertainty to the war. While some Americans support continued aid to Ukraine, others want the U.S. to reduce its involvement. Trump has made it clear he would not support sending some of the most advanced weapons, like Tomahawk missiles, which are currently not part of U.S. aid to Ukraine anyway.
For now, Kyiv is continuing to rely on President Joe Biden’s administration, which supports military aid. But the possibility of a Trump presidency has forced Ukrainian leaders to prepare for different scenarios.
Conclusion
Trump’s refusal to supply Tomahawk missiles and his strong call to “stop the war immediately” reflect his broader approach to foreign policy — less military involvement, more pressure to negotiate. For Ukraine, it is a warning sign that U.S. support could look very different in the future.
Whether Trump’s vision leads to real peace or more challenges remains to be seen, but it is already shaping the conversation around the future of the war.