Kyiv endured one of its darkest nights yet, facing a record-breaking aerial bombardment from Russia, a “deliberate act of terror.” This unprecedented attack coincided with a period of diplomatic frustration for President Donald Trump, who expressed “disappointment” after his call with Vladimir Putin yielded no concessions. The intensity of the bombardment cast a grim shadow over Trump’s subsequent “good conversation” with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The US has reportedly halted its latest shipment of crucial military aid to Ukraine, including Patriot air defense missiles, due to a review of its own military stockpiles. Zelenskyy, during his call with Trump, focused on Ukraine’s urgent air defense needs, joint defense production, and potential “mutual purchases and investments,” aiming to incentivize the Trump administration to resume vital aid.
Zelenskyy explicitly linked the timing of Russia’s massive attack on Kyiv to the Trump-Putin call, calling it a “clear interpretation of how Moscow interprets diplomacy.” This underscores the Kremlin’s unwavering aggressive stance despite international efforts to de-escalate the conflict, placing immense pressure on Ukraine’s defensive capabilities.
With US aid in limbo due to a review of military stockpiles, Germany is reportedly engaged in “intensive talks” to acquire Patriot missile systems for Ukraine. This proactive European effort aims to bridge the critical air defense gap and provide Kyiv with the necessary tools to protect its cities.