Trump issues brutal verdict on Putin's Ukraine war as G7 allies ramp up military pressure

Donald Trump has called for an end to the war in Ukraine, saying Vladimir Putin must bring the conflict to a close and claiming Russia is suffering heavier military losses than Kyiv.

The US President made the comments during the G7 summit, where Ukraine’s allies have been trying to reinforce support for Kyiv and strengthen its position ahead of any potential future peace negotiations.

His intervention came as Western leaders gathered to assess the next stage of assistance for Ukraine, with attention focused on whether Washington’s stance on the conflict is shifting.

Trump also described Russia as the offensive party in the war 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”.

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.

What support did G7 leaders agree 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.

What was 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.