In a stunning shift, Donald Trump has reportedly expressed support for Ukraine’s capability to strike deep into Russian territory, including Moscow and St. Petersburg, as the U.S. recalibrates its stance on the ongoing conflict. During a recent conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump inquired whether Ukraine could target major Russian cities, to which Zelensky affirmed, contingent on receiving advanced weaponry.

This conversation, disclosed by the Financial Times, marks a notable departure from Trump’s earlier rhetoric, which leaned toward appeasing Russia. The former president’s acknowledgment of Ukraine’s need to “make Russia feel the pain” reflects a growing frustration with the stalemate in negotiations with President Vladimir Putin.

Crucially, Trump has indicated that U.S. Patriot missiles—essential for bolstering Ukraine’s air defense against relentless Russian bombardments—are already en route. Additionally, Ukraine has requested Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, which boast a striking range of 1,600 kilometers, significantly extending Ukraine’s operational reach. This request is not new, but its renewed emphasis underscores Ukraine’s evolving military needs as the conflict drags on.

The context of these developments is grim. Reports of war crimes, including the beheading of Ukrainian prisoners by Russian troops, paint a harrowing picture of the conflict’s brutality. Furthermore, the use of chemical weapons by Russia has reportedly occurred on thousands of occasions, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis.

As the war continues to escalate, the implications of Trump’s evolving support for Ukraine cannot be understated. The potential provision of advanced weaponry could significantly alter the battlefield dynamics, offering Ukraine a fighting chance against a formidable adversary. However, the path forward remains fraught with peril, as both sides remain entrenched, unwilling to concede in a conflict that has already claimed countless lives.