Trump says Zelenskyy shouldn't strike Moscow, toughens stance on Russia

US President Donald Trump has publicly cautioned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy against targeting Moscow with long-range weapons, following reports that he may soon authorize additional military aid to Kyiv.

Speaking outside the White House on Tuesday, Trump addressed growing speculation sparked by a Financial Times report that he had asked Zelenskyy whether Ukraine would consider striking Moscow if provided with long-range missiles.

“I don’t think they should be hitting Moscow,” Trump said, shortly after announcing that defensive weapons would be sent to Ukraine.

“I’m going to see what happens with President Putin,” he added, referring to a 50-day ultimatum he reportedly issued to the Kremlin, demanding a peace agreement or facing "severe" economic tariffs.

Trump emphasized that he is not aligning with either side in the war: “I’m on nobody’s side. I’m on humanity’s side. I want to stop the killing of thousands of people a week.”

He also expressed disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating: “So far, I’ve been very disappointed with him.”