According to Donald Trump, during a telephone conversation with Vladimir Putin, he failed to make any advancement in the war in Ukraine. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitri Pieskov, after talking to both leaders, said that Russia would like to accomplish its objectives in Ukraine by political and diplomatic means, but that would not halt the "special military operation".
The United States continues to transfer arms to Ukraine, as confirmed by Donald Trump. However, on Tuesday, the White home reported a halt in the transfer of parts of missiles to air defence systems. This decision was made to "put America's interests first," as the White home deputy spokesperson Anna Kelly said.
Donald Trump besides said that he signed letters to 12 countries, informing about the different tariff levels to which goods imported into the United States will be subject. The letters are due Monday. The American president refused to give the names of the countries to which the letters will be sent first. On 9 July, the 90-day suspension of these duties expires.
According to data from the White House, the United States provides Ukraine with about $1 billion of military aid each year. This assistance is intended for air defence systems, tanks and armored transporters. Ukraine is 1 of the main partners of the United States in east Europe.
On the issue of the war in Ukraine, the United States and the European Union imposed economical sanctions on Russia to undermine the Russian economy. Sanctions include bans on imports and exports of goods, as well as freezing of assets of Russian companies and individuals.
According to data from the global Monetary Fund, the Russian economy shrinked by about 3% in 2022, which is the largest decline since 2009. Inflation in Russia reached 15% in 2022, which is the highest level since 2015.
International relations between the United States and Russia are very tense, especially after NATO has expanded to east Europe. Russia sees the expansion of NATO as a threat to its national safety and takes action to counter this development.
On the issue of war in Ukraine, the United States and the European Union support Ukraine and have taken action to aid Ukraine defend its territory. Russia denies participation in the war in Ukraine, but evidence indicates that Russia is active in conflict.
The results of the economical sanctions imposed on Russia are different. On the 1 hand, sanctions weakened the Russian economy, but on the another hand, Russia increased its commitment to the conflict in Ukraine. The United States and the European Union must consider further action to counter Russia's actions and aid Ukraine defend its territory.
