
Trump pledges more weapons for Ukraine as Russia advances
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Washington will send additional defensive weapons to Ukraine amid escalating Russian attacks and recent territorial gains claimed by Moscow.
Speaking at the White House on Monday, Trump said, “We’re going to have to send more weapons — defensive weapons primarily,” acknowledging the intense pressure Ukraine is facing on the battlefield. He added, “They’re getting hit very, very hard,” and emphasized he was “not happy” with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The statement comes just days after the U.S. had temporarily paused certain arms shipments to Kyiv, a move that unsettled Ukrainian officials and prompted urgent diplomatic engagements.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed a military breakthrough in Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk region, announcing the capture of a village following months of operations. The offensive was reportedly supported by a heavy barrage of missiles and drones, targeting Ukrainian military recruitment centres.
In response, Ukraine launched a drone strike on a Russian ammunition facility in the Moscow region, demonstrating its continued commitment to defensive and counter-offensive strategies.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by calling for stronger international coordination and support. He instructed his Defence Minister to prepare for upcoming Ramstein-format meetings, expected to generate new commitments from allies by August or September.
Zelensky also highlighted Russia’s increasing dependence on Iranian-made Shahed drones in recent attacks. “They have few options left to prolong the war… I thank everyone who is helping us counter these attacks,” he posted on X.
The developments underscore a renewed push from both sides, as Ukraine seeks reinforcements and Russia presses forward on multiple fronts.