President Trump Speaks with reporters before boarding Air force one, Oct 13, 2025.
President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Russia, hinting at the possibility of sending long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine if Moscow refuses to end its war. The statement marks one of Trump’s strongest signals yet of escalating pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Israel, Trump said, “If this war doesn’t get settled, I might send them Tomahawks.” He emphasized the destructive power of the missiles, calling them “an incredible and very offensive weapon.”
Trump Hints at Escalating Pressure on Moscow
Trump’s remarks suggest a possible shift toward a more assertive stance on the Ukraine conflict. “I might tell them that if the war is not settled — we may very well [send them],” Trump added. “We may not, but it’s appropriate to bring up.”
His comments came shortly after a call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, during which Trump reportedly mentioned the potential delivery of Tomahawk missiles. “Do they want Tomahawks coming their way? I don’t think so,” Trump said about Russia. “It’s a new step of aggression.”
Russia’s Energy Attacks Deepen Tensions
The warning came as Russia launched fresh overnight attacks on Ukraine’s power grid, aiming to cripple energy infrastructure ahead of winter. Moscow expressed “extreme concern” over any U.S. move to supply Tomahawks, saying such an act would further strain relations between Washington and Moscow.
Putin has repeatedly cautioned that U.S. delivery of long-range weapons to Ukraine would cause “serious damage” to diplomatic ties. The Kremlin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, reiterated on Sunday that the “topic of Tomahawks is of extreme concern.”
Zelenskyy Calls Discussion with Trump ‘Productive’
President Zelenskyy described his recent conversation with Trump as “very productive,” highlighting their discussion about bolstering Ukraine’s air defense and long-range capabilities. The leaders also spoke about strengthening Ukraine’s energy resilience.
In an interview with Fox News Channel’s The Sunday Briefing, Zelenskyy was asked whether Trump had approved the Tomahawks. “We work on it,” he replied. “I’m waiting for the president to say yes. Of course, we count on such decisions — but we will see.”
Ukraine Pushes for Long-Range Weapons
Zelenskyy confirmed that Ukraine is currently in talks with U.S. officials about acquiring long-range precision strike weapons, including Tomahawk missiles and additional ATACMS tactical ballistic missiles. These weapons could allow Ukraine to target deeper areas of Russian territory — a move Zelenskyy argues is essential to pressure Moscow into meaningful peace talks.
Trump’s Changing Stance on Ukraine
Trump’s comments represent a notable shift in tone. In recent weeks, he has become more vocal against Moscow after Putin refused direct talks with Zelenskyy. Just last month, Trump stated that he now believes Ukraine can regain all territories lost to Russia, a departure from his earlier stance urging Kyiv to make concessions.
Still, Trump remains cautious. Despite Zelenskyy’s repeated appeals, he has yet to approve sending Tomahawks. The decision, he said last week, is “sort of made” but not final.
A senior Ukrainian delegation is expected to visit Washington this week to continue discussions.
“Putin Should Settle the War,” Says Trump
As he wrapped up his remarks, Trump hinted that ending the war could even benefit Putin politically. “I really think Putin would look great if he got this settled,” Trump said. “It’s not going to be good for him if it’s not.”
With winter approaching and Russia intensifying its assaults, the possibility of Tomahawk missiles in Ukrainian hands could mark a turning point — one that could reshape the war’s trajectory and the fragile relationship between Washington and Moscow.
