Wed Jul 16 04:55:35 UTC 2025: ## Trump Backtracks on Potential Ukraine Strikes on Moscow

**WASHINGTON D.C.** – President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that Ukraine “should not” target Moscow, walking back an earlier suggestion that Kyiv consider such strikes if provided with longer-range weaponry. The statement follows a report in the Financial Times alleging that Trump, during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on July 4th, inquired about Ukraine’s ability to strike deep inside Russia, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, if equipped with the appropriate armaments.

The report, citing anonymous sources familiar with the call, painted a picture of Trump seemingly encouraging Ukraine to escalate its offensive capabilities. However, when directly asked on Tuesday whether Zelenskyy should target Moscow, Trump flatly replied, “He should not.” He also added that the US is “not looking” to supply Kyiv with longer-range missiles.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt attempted to clarify the situation, claiming Trump’s questions were taken out of context. “President Trump was merely asking a question, not encouraging further killing,” she said in a statement.

The incident highlights a recent shift in Trump’s stance on the war in Ukraine. On Monday, the president announced a policy of increased weapons supply to Ukraine, coupled with threats of significant secondary tariffs on Russia’s trading partners if a peace agreement isn’t reached within 50 days. This marks a departure from his previous rhetoric, which often framed US support for Ukraine as a drain on resources and accused Zelenskyy of hindering peace efforts.

These changes come amidst growing frustration within the administration regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin’s unwillingness to negotiate an end to the conflict.

The Kremlin has acknowledged Trump’s recent pronouncements, calling them “very serious.” Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that the situation requires careful analysis before any formal response from President Putin.

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