Trump Clarifies Ukraine Comments: "Not Encouraging Strikes on Moscow," Says White House

Keywords: Trump Ukraine Moscow strike, Trump Putin Ukraine war, White House Russia response, Trump 50-day Ukraine peace plan, US weapons Ukraine, Trump Russia sanctions, Trump NATO Ukraine deal

Former President Donald Trump has found himself at the center of controversy once again after reports emerged suggesting he asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky whether Ukraine could strike Moscow. According to the White House, however, Trump was "merely asking a question", not advocating for further violence or escalation in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The statement comes amid growing scrutiny of Trump’s new foreign policy moves and a fresh Ukraine military aid package unveiled earlier this week.

📞 Trump’s Conversation with Zelensky Raises Eyebrows

According to a report by the Financial Times, Trump allegedly asked Zelensky during a private conversation on July 4, “Can you hit Moscow? Can you hit St Petersburg too?” The report cited unnamed sources and came shortly after what has been described as a tense call between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The White House denied any malicious intent, telling the BBC that Trump was simply posing a question. "He's working tirelessly to stop the killing and end this war," the White House added.

🇺🇸 Trump's Latest Ukraine Policy: Weapons and Warnings

On Monday, Trump announced a new weapons deal for Ukraine, including possible delivery of advanced defense systems like Patriot missiles. He also warned that if Russia does not reach a ceasefire within 50 days, the U.S. would implement 100% secondary tariffs on all of Russia's remaining trade partners.

Key Points of Trump’s 50-Day Peace Plan:

Supply of U.S. defensive weapons to Ukraine
Deadline for a Russia-Ukraine ceasefire: 50 days
Severe economic sanctions on Russia’s allies if no peace deal is reached

Despite the bold stance, Trump clarified that he has no intention of providing long-range missiles capable of reaching deep into Russian territory — a move that has been a major point of contention among NATO allies.

💥 Reactions from NATO and Russia

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte confirmed that discussions are ongoing between the U.S., Europe, and Ukraine to finalize the terms of the new weapons agreement.

On the other hand, the Kremlin swiftly responded to Trump’s comments. Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed Trump’s remarks signaled an intent to prolong the war, not to bring peace.

“It’s not a signal for peace, but a signal to continue the war,” said Peskov.

⚰️ War Casualties Mount as Pressure Builds

The United Nations reports that over 230 Ukrainian civilians were killed in June alone — the deadliest month in over three years of conflict. Despite Trump’s promises to end the war quickly, progress has been slow.

In a recent interview with the BBC, Trump said he was growing increasingly frustrated with Putin. “I’m disappointed, but I’m not done with him,” he said.

“We’ll be having a great conversation, and then he knocks down a building in Kyiv. It’s frustrating,” Trump added, expressing skepticism about Putin's intentions.

🕊️ Ceasefire Talks Remain Elusive

So far in 2025, two rounds of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine have occurred, but no new discussions have been scheduled. Despite promises from all sides, real diplomatic progress appears to be stalled.

Trump continues to emphasize his personal diplomatic efforts, stating he’s “working at getting Putin to stop the killing.” Whether that involves new sanctions, pressure through allies, or future summits remains unclear.

📌 Final Thoughts: What Does Trump’s Ukraine Strategy Really Mean?

Trump’s foreign policy is making headlines again, especially with his direct engagement in the Russia-Ukraine war. While his tough stance on Russia and commitment to ending the war have earned praise in some circles, others worry that his comments — even as questions — could escalate tensions.

As the countdown begins on Trump’s 50-day peace deadline, all eyes are now on Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington to see whether diplomacy or further escalation wins out.