Trump sends weapons to Ukraine and gives Russia a 50-day 'ultimatum'

According to RIA Novosti, at a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte on July 14 (Washington time), US President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum on resolving the conflict in Ukraine and announced the provision of new weapons to Kiev.

“We will impose very strong tariffs if we don’t reach an agreement within 50 days on resolving the conflict in Ukraine. Tariffs at about 100%, they could be called secondary tariffs,” President Donald Trump said.

Mr Trump expressed “very unhappy” with Russia and said the White House was unsure about the need for sanctions legislation against Moscow, which is being considered by the US Senate. However, Mr Trump said the mandates would not require congressional approval.

“The Ukraine deal should have been signed 'a long time ago,' but instead it is 'still being discussed,'" President Trump said, stressing that Washington remains interested in establishing a lasting peace in Ukraine.

President Trump said he speaks frequently with Russian President Vladimir Putin, and the conversations are “always very pleasant.” According to Trump, Russia has “incredible potential,” including on the trade front.

Regarding the transfer of weapons to Ukraine, President Trump said that the US and the EU have reached an agreement on the supply of US weapons to Kiev, and the costs will be borne by Europe. The coordination of the transfer of weapons will be handled by NATO and the permanent representatives of the countries to the Alliance. Future deliveries will include Patriot and some other types of weapons.

According to Mr. Trump, the agreement reached with Europe on providing weapons to Kiev "offers an opportunity" to achieve peace in Ukraine.