Donald Trump has issued what he called a "brutal verdict" on the war in Ukraine, as G7 leaders agreed fresh measures to boost military support for Kyiv. The US President made the comments during the G7 summit in Versailles, where Ukraine's allies have been trying to reinforce support for Kyiv and strengthen its position ahead of any potential future peace negotiations.
Trump's Call for Peace
Trump called for an end to the war, saying Vladimir Putin must bring the conflict to a close and claiming Russia is suffering heavier military losses than Ukraine. He described Russia as the offensive party and urged Moscow to move towards peace, remarks that have sparked discussion among European officials about a possible change in tone.
French President Emmanuel Macron said Trump had shown a "real change in approach," while other European leaders reportedly expressed similar views following the discussions, according to the Independent. The comments followed a meeting between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, which the US President described as "very good."
G7 Military Support for Ukraine
Alongside the political discussions, G7 leaders set out further military backing for Ukraine as the war continues into its fifth year. A joint statement said: "To support and accelerate this new momentum, we agree to increase the delivery of air defence capacities, additional systems and interceptors, and long-range capabilities."
The agreement also includes commitments to strengthen Ukraine's air defences, safeguard its energy infrastructure and increase economic pressure on Russia. Zelensky and his allies had used the summit to argue that Ukraine continues to make gains in its resistance and that Russia should not be in a position to dictate terms in any future settlement.
Ukraine's Response
Zelensky welcomed the outcome of the summit, saying Ukraine had secured important results from discussions with international partners. He posted on X: "The G7 Summit in France delivered important results for Ukraine. Most importantly, we agreed on additional strengthening of Ukraine's air defense."
The Ukrainian President said the commitments would support Ukraine's defence effort as the conflict continues, with international leaders expected to maintain long-term backing for Kyiv.
