Trump Eyes Tomahawk Missiles for Ukraine, Focuses on Russia

Fresh off securing a fragile ceasefire in Gaza, President Donald Trump outlined his next major priority: ending Russia's war on Ukraine. Speaking on Thursday, Trump signaled his readiness to escalate pressure on Moscow, including the possible provision of long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, should Russian President Vladimir Putin refuse to enter peace talks.

Ending the wars in Gaza and Ukraine has been a central promise of Trump’s 2024 campaign. Despite his repeated efforts, he has struggled to persuade Putin to hold direct negotiations with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the war enters its fourth year. Now, with momentum from his success in the Middle East, Trump is focused on resolving the conflict with Russia.

Ahead of a scheduled meeting with Zelenskyy at the White House on Friday—marking their fourth meeting this year—Trump suggested that the U.S. could sell Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine. These missiles, capable of striking up to 1,000 miles into Russian territory, would represent a major escalation and test Moscow's "red line."

However, analysts caution that supplying Tomahawks could be more symbolic than practical due to the time required for training. Experts are instead recommending that Ukraine’s military be bolstered with ERAM and ATACMS missiles, which have already been approved for sale.

Zelenskyy is expected to press Trump for tougher sanctions on Russia. While Congress debates a bipartisan bill to impose steep tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and gas, Trump has focused on urging NATO allies and India to curb Russian crude imports.

Behind the scenes, the White House is working with senators to refine the sanctions bill, indicating an increased willingness to adopt stronger economic measures. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighted the need for “greater buy-in from Europe,” emphasizing that “Putin threatens Warsaw, not Boston.”