Russia’s position on Ukraine remains unchanged. The Kremlin states it does not rule out a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy but only after extensive preparatory work at the expert level, UNIAN reports. 

De-facto capitulation of Ukraine 

“Putin is ready to meet with Zelenskyy after preparatory work at the expert level. However, that work has not been carried out yet,” Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin’s spokesperson, told Russian media.

Russia’s demands, unchanged since summer 2024, include: official recognition of annexed territories, guarantees of Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and a pledge not to join NATO. Moscow insists that only after these conditions are met can any serious talks take place.

Putin shrugs off Trump’s ultimatum and says he’s ready to wait until Kyiv agrees to his conditions to end war

Currently, global observers are watching closely to see whether US President Donald Trump will impose sanctions after the Kremlin refused to comply with his ceasefire ultimatum on Ukraine.

Meanwhile, tentions between Washington and Moscow continue to escalate

After former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev’s claims, referencing the Soviet automatic nuclear strike system “Dead Hand” in the context of threats against the US, Trump ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines. Medvedev’s threats came following Trump’s announcement of a 10-day ultimatum that the US gave to Russia to end its war.

This exchange significantly escalated nuclear rhetoric between the two powers, underscoring the growing intertwining of the Ukraine war with nuclear deterrence.

President Donald Trump revealed on 3 August that American nuclear submarines have moved into position near Russian waters, confirming the deployment he ordered just days earlier in response to escalating threats from Moscow.

“They are in the region, yeah, where they have to be,” Trump told reporters when asked about the submarine positioning, according to The Hill.

The submarine deployment represents Trump’s most direct military response yet to what he called “highly provocative statements” from Dmitry Medvedev, Russia’s former president who now serves as Deputy Chairman of the Security Council.

What triggered the submarine deployment

The military positioning follows Trump’s 10-day ultimatum to Russia over the Ukraine war. Trump threatened tariffs and sanctions unless Moscow shows progress ending the war.

Medvedev fired back, accusing Trump of “playing a game of ultimatums with Russia.” The Russian official warned that “every new ultimatum is a threat and a step toward war” – targeting not Ukraine, but Trump’s “own country.”

On 31 July, Trump told Medvedev to “watch his words” and calling him a “failed former President of Russia, who thinks he’s still President.”

“He’s entering very dangerous territory!” Trump declared, noting that “Russia and the USA do almost no business together. Let’s keep it that way.”

Medvedev responded by invoking Russia’s “Dead Hand” nuclear system and telling Trump to “remember his favorite zombie movies.”

On 1 August, Trump announced his submarine deployment on Truth Social: “I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that.”

Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences, I hope this will not be one of those instances,” he added.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplayed the submarine news, telling Russian media that “American submarines are already on combat duty anyway. This is a constant process.”

But Peskov stressed Russia’s careful approach to nuclear rhetoric: “We are very careful about any statements related to nuclear issues. Russia takes a responsible position.”

When pressed about Medvedev’s inflammatory statements, Peskov deflected: “In every country, members of the country’s leadership have different views.” He emphasized that “President Putin” formulates Russia’s foreign policy.

What happens next

Trump confirmed his special envoy Steve Witkoff will travel to Russia this week – either 6 or 7 August for talks ahead of planned new sanctions.

The diplomatic mission comes as nuclear-armed submarines patrol near Russian waters, creating a complex backdrop of military pressure and negotiation attempts.

President Donald Trump announced that his Middle East special envoy Steve Witkoff will likely visit Russia on Wednesday or Thursday, according to remarks made to journalists in New Jersey reported by CBS News.

Trump told reporters that Witkoff may visit Russia “possibly on Wednesday or Thursday” (6-7 August). The president added that the Russians “asked for a meeting” with Witkoff.

When journalists asked what would happen on 8 August, if Russia does not agree to a ceasefire, Trump responded that “there will be sanctions.” However, he acknowledged Russia’s ability to circumvent economic restrictions.

“There’ll be sanctions, but they [the Russians] seem to be pretty good at avoiding sanctions,” Trump said. “They’re wily characters and they’re pretty good at avoiding sanctions, so we’ll see what happens.”

Trump reiterated his position that Russia’s war against Ukraine is claiming many lives. “It’s a terrible war,” he said, adding: “We stopped many wars… India and Pakistan, many countries. And we will stop this war too. Somehow we will stop it.”

The announcement follows Trump’s previous ultimatums to Moscow. On 14 July, he threatened to impose “tough tariffs” of “around 100%” on Russian goods if no agreement to end the war in Ukraine is reached within 50 days. On 31 July, he threatened Russian leader Vladimir Putin with sanctions if no agreements to end the war are reached by 8 August.

Russian Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev responded to the shortened deadline by threatening the United States with war. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham subsequently advised Russia to contact countries that purchase Russian oil and gas, supporting Russia’s military machine, to determine whether they share the Kremlin’s dismissive position on sanctions.

[L'article Tarifs douaniers: Mark Carney et Donald Trump pourraient se reparler prochainement  a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

NATO launches a new “combat wallet” for Ukraine. Washington and Brussels are creating a new weapons supply mechanism for Ukraine that will accelerate support amid rising civilian casualties, Reuters reports.

This setup bypasses complex US procedures and enables faster delivery of air defense systems, missiles, artillery, and other critical weapons. This is a voluntary initiative coordinated by NATO, says a senior Alliance official.

How the new aid mechanism works

Under the plan, NATO will create a special account where member states will contribute funds. These funds will then be used to procure or transfer US weapons to Ukraine. 

Ukraine will submit lists of priority weaponry (PURL) worth about $500 million per tranche, and allies will determine who contributes to what. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte will coordinate the distribution.

Trump steps up pressure on Moscow and allies

President Donald Trump, initially cautious in his rhetoric, has adopted a tougher stance on the war. According to sources, he condemned Russia’s growing civilian death toll and gave the Kremlin a deadline — show progress in ending the war by 8 August, or face new US tariffs. 

Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Russia does not plan to stop the war against Ukraine. His statements came on 1 August, the day after Russian missiles killed 31 civilians in Kyiv. Putin claimed Russia is ready to wait until Ukraine agrees to its conditions to end the war, which mean de-facte the capitulation of Kyiv. 

US lawmakers seek to formalize the scheme in law

Congress has introduced the PEACE Act, a bill that would create a dedicated fund within the US Treasury to collect European contributions and replenish US weapons stockpiles sent to Ukraine. Negotiations on the first tranche are ongoing, but the exact timeline and aid volumes remain unclear.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham issued a warning to Russia regarding potential escalation, responding to threats made by Dmitry Medvedev against the United States.

Graham wrote on social media platform X that President Donald Trump does not seek conflict but stands ready for decisive action if necessary.

“To my friends in Russia: President Trump seeks peace not conflict. However, please understand that he is not Obama, he is not Biden, and he will not be trifled with. You are overplaying your hand,” Graham wrote.

The US President previously announced on Truth Social that he ordered the deployment of two nuclear submarines to appropriate regions following provocative statements by Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Security Council Dmitry Medvedev.

Trump explained that he “was forced to do this” to protect the American people.

Earlier, Medvedev published a post mentioning the Soviet automatic nuclear strike system known as “Dead Hand” and called on Trump to “remember his favorite zombie movies.”

Previously, Medvedev claimed that Trump “is playing a game of ultimatums with Russia.” He added that “every new ultimatum is a threat and a step toward war.”

President Donald Trump has expressed earlier growing frustration with Russia’s continued attacks on Ukraine. Trump, who initially adopted a more conciliatory approach toward Moscow while attempting to end the three-year war, has now threatened to impose tariffs and other measures if Russia shows no progress toward ending the war by 8 August.

President Donald Trump ordered two nuclear submarines to be strategically positioned in response to what he called “highly provocative statements” from former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev NBC NewsCNN, escalating tensions between the nuclear superpowers on 1 August.

“I have ordered two Nuclear Submarines to be positioned in the appropriate regions, just in case these foolish and inflammatory statements are more than just that,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Words are very important, and can often lead to unintended consequences, I hope this will not be one of those instances.”

The submarine deployment came after Medvedev made reference to Russia’s Soviet-era automatic, retaliatory nuclear strike capabilities on 31 July, after Trump told Medvedev to “watch his words.”

The exchange began after Medvedev said that “each new ultimatum” that Trump makes toward Russia in pressuring an end to the war in Ukraine.

Trump had previously warned of new sanctions against Moscow if Russia did not demonstrate progress in ending the Ukraine war within 10 days.

US President Donald Trump has stunned with details on the death toll in Ukraine. The American leader claims that since the start of 2025, Russia has lost over 112,500 soldiers, while Ukraine has suffered around 8,000 military casualties, not including the missing.

“This is Biden’s war, not Trump’s”

“I have just been informed that almost 20,000 Russian soldiers died this month in the ridiculous War with Ukraine. Russia has lost 112,500 soldiers since the beginning of the year,” Trump wrote on Truth Social on 1 August. 

He called it “a lot of unnecessary death” and noted that Russia continues to strike Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, killing civilians.

“This is a War that should have never happened — This is Biden’s War, not ‘TRUMP’s.’ I’m just here to see if I can stop it!” he added. 

Earlier today, Russian ruler Vladimir Putin cynically commented on the war in Ukraine for the first time since US President Donald Trump issued his 10-day ultimatum on Russia. 

Putin confirmed that Russia’s conditions for ending the war, announced back in summer 2024, remain unchanged.

Last year, he insisted on the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the occupied territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Moscow has illegally incorporated these Ukrainian regions into its Constitution. Additionally, Russia demands that Ukraine renounce NATO membership, enshrine a non-nuclear status, and lift sanctions.

Russian ruler Vladimir Putin has cynically commented on the war in Ukraine for the first time since US President Donald Trump issued his 10-day ultimatum on Russia. Last week, the American president gave Russia ten days to reach a peaceful settlement, threatening massive sanctions if this does not happen by 8 August, UNIAN reports.

Moscow is ready to wait

During a meeting with the self-proclaimed president of Belarus, Alexander Lukashenko, Putin spoke positively about the negotiations in Turkiye and the prisoner exchanges, stating that Moscow is “ready to wait” if Kyiv is not prepared for talks.

At the same time, he said the Ukrainian political regime “is not based on the Constitution” and supports prolonged negotiations “without any time limits.”

In June, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy revealed that the Kremlin used prisoner exchanges as a tool to delay the negotiation process with Ukraine and dodge sanctions. While sending back Ukrainian prisoners of war, beaten and tortured in captivity, Russia does not agree to any other proposition to end the war. 

Ukrainian soldier dies weeks after release from Russian captivity with his organs failing due to torture

Kremlin’s conditions remain the same as last year 

Putin confirmed that Russia’s conditions for ending the war, announced back in summer 2024, remain unchanged.

Last year, he insisted on the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from the occupied territories of Donetsk, Luhansk, Kherson, and Zaporizhzhia. Moscow has illegally incorporated these Ukrainian regions into its Constitution. Additionally, Russia demands that Ukraine renounce NATO membership, enshrine a non-nuclear status, and lift sanctions.

Lukashenko says Zelenskyy should ask Putin to negotiate

In talks with propagandists, Putin boasted about the production of the first serial ballistic missile Oreshnik and the Russian army’s offensive along the entire front line.

In 2024, Russia used a Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) missile armed with conventional warheads to strike Dnipro. While MIRV technology has long been associated with nuclear delivery systems, this marked its first use in combat. The scale of the destruction remains unknown. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, Russia targeted industrial facilities and critical infrastructure in Dnipro.

Meanwhile, Lukashenko urged Zelenskyy “to simply sit down at the negotiating table” with Putin and emphasized that Minsk and Moscow will not kneel because they decisively defend their interests.

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha called for immediate maximum pressure on Moscow following a deadly overnight strike on Kyiv that killed at least eight people and injured over 120 others.

Russian missiles and drones ripped through Kyiv overnight on 31 July, collapsing apartment buildings and setting fires in several districts of the city. The attack killed at least eight civilians and injured over 120 people.

Russian missile struck an apartment building kin one of the Kyiv’s disctrict, collapsing its entire section.

Ukraine’s FM posted photos of a destroyed nine-story building entrance on his X account, detailing the casualties and damage from the night attacks. Schools and hospitals were among the damaged facilities, with some people still trapped under debris.

“It is probably time to reduce to zero all of the timeframes that had been given to Putin to demonstrate a constructive approach. President Trump has been very generous and very patient with Putin, trying to find a solution,” Sybiha said.

The Foreign Minister emphasized Putin’s deliberate actions, saying the Russian leader “clearly acts as he acts with conscious intent.”

“The entire existence of this war criminal is based on this senseless war, which he cannot win but refuses to end… It’s time to put maximum pressure on Moscow. It is time to synchronise all sanctions steps. It’s time to achieve peace through strength,” Sybiha wrote on X.

The statement comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced that President Donald Trump is “losing patience” while waiting for concrete steps from Moscow to end the war.

Trump has set a 10-day deadline for Russia to demonstrate progress in ending the Ukraine war, threatening to impose tariffs and other measures against Russia if no advancement is shown.

The overnight shelling represents the latest escalation in the war, with civilian infrastructure continuing to bear the brunt of Russian attacks on the Ukrainian capital.

The Kremlin has rejected President Donald Trump’s ultimatum for Russia to negotiate an end to its war in Ukraine within 10 days, with officials reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to continue military operations until achieving its stated objectives.

Trump announced the deadline on 29 July before boarding Air Force One, warning that tariffs would take effect if Russia refused to stop the war. “Ten days from today. And then we’re gonna put on tariffs and stuff,” Trump told reporters, according to audio published by the White House.

The threatened tariffs would target secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil, gas and other products, including China and India. Trump acknowledged uncertainty about the measure’s impact, stating: “I don’t know if it’s gonna affect Russia, because he (Russian President Vladimir Putin) wants to obviously probably keep the war going, but we’re gonna put tariffs and various things.”

The announcement represents a shortened timeline from Trump’s previous ultimatum delivered 14 July, when he warned of “severe” tariffs up to 100% if Russia failed to agree to a peace deal within 50 days. Trump said on 28 July he was no longer willing to wait that long.

Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev responded on his English-language X account, according to the ISW, that Trump cannot dictate negotiation timing. Medvedev said that negotiations will conclude only when Russia achieves all war objectives, likely referring to Moscow’s original aims including regime change in Ukraine, alterations to NATO’s open-door policy, and reducing Ukraine’s military capabilities.

Kremlin Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov echoed the rejection, claiming Russia will continue its war to protect national interests despite Trump’s revised deadline. 

The Institute for the Study of War assessed Kremlin’s statements as efforts to compel Trump to abandon his deadline in favor of normalized bilateral relations and increased cooperation. ISW reported that the Kremlin remains uninterested in negotiations to end the war, instead seeking to protract the war to secure additional battlefield gains.

Washington speaks the language of deadlines, while Moscow responds with threats. Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev is suggesting that US President Donald Trump’s pressure could provoke a broader, direct confrontation with the US itself. 

His furious speech came after Trump issued a new ultimatum to the Kremlin — just 10 days to reach a peace agreement on Ukraine, not 50, as he announced before. Also, the US president said he was tired of receiving no results from any peace talks with Russia, which bring only more deaths in Ukraine. Thus, he does not want to continue negotiations with Moscow and will pay attention only to real actions from Russia. 

Medvedev, as usual, reacted with a series of angry threats on social network X.

“Trump’s playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10… He should remember 2 things:
1. Russia isn’t Israel or even Iran.
2. Each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country,” he wrote. 

However, it’s unclear whether Russia is now capable of really waging the war against the US. The Russian economy is declining, and during three and a half years, Moscow managed to occupy only 20% of Ukrainian territory. 

Medvedev also scornfully warned Trump, “Don’t go down the Sleepy Joe road,” clearly mocking Joe Biden. The US cut off diplomatic ties with Russia during Biden’s presidency. Trump has abandoned the isolation policy against Moscow to end the war in Ukraine and Israel. However, that did not bring any strong results, as the hostilities have not ceased, and Russian President Vladimir Putin did not convince the Tehran leaders to stop attacking Jerusalem. 

[L'article Les États-Unis et l’Union européenne ont conclu une entente commerciale a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

On 25 July, Commander-in-Chief of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi met with the newly appointed Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR), General Alexis Grinkevich, in Kyiv. 

Major General Andrii Hnatov, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and Curtis Buzzard, Head of NATO’s Security Assistance Mission, also joined the comprehensive discussion. 

Russia throws everything it has, but Ukraine braces for the counterstrike

During the talks, Syrskyi emphasized that Russia has already mobilized the maximum of its human and material resources in an attempt to break through. However, despite the pressure, Ukraine retains conventional capabilities to destroy offensive groupings.

“Our allies fully understand the scale and complexity of the tasks facing the Ukrainian Armed Forces,” he said.

Patriots incoming: NATO sends weapons — Europe pays

The parties discussed the expedited transfer of new air defense systems purchased for Ukraine by European allies.

“We are grateful to President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte for the swift delivery of these systems. They are already on their way,” Syrskyi stressed.

The systems in question are Patriots, a key Ukrainian defense against ballistic missile strikes. As of now, Kyiv has eight batteries, six of which were operational in May. The new deliveries could increase the total to 13.

The deliveries were announced by US President Donald Trump after Russia began launching massive attacks on Ukraine, right after any conversations he or US representatives had with Russian ruler Vladimir Putin.

Trump also revealed a new aid model: the US will produce weapons for NATO and Ukraine, while European partners will foot the bill. Ukraine will receive modern missiles and military equipment, critically needed at this stage of the war.

One-third of Americans approve of President Donald Trump’s handling of the situation in Ukraine, according to a new Gallup poll that shows declining support for the president’s foreign policy approach six months into his second term.

Since his inauguration in January 2025, President Trump has pursued ending the Russia-Ukraine war by engaging in direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, seeking a ceasefire, and pressuring Ukraine to agree to terms. Trump also paused some military aid and intelligence sharing to Ukraine in March 2025.

Despite initial confrontations with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and criticism for sidelining Ukraine in talks, Trump later announced renewed weapons support and coordinated arms deliveries through NATO. He also claimed to impose potential sanctions on Russia if a settlement is not reached quickly.

The poll, conducted 7-21 July, found that 33% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of Ukraine, representing an eight-point decline from earlier measurements this year.

The survey began days after Trump signed the One Big Beautiful Bill Act on 4 July, which addressed “tax cuts for individuals and corporations and increased spending for border security, defense and energy production.”

Trump’s overall job approval rating has fallen to 37%, “the lowest of this term and just slightly higher than his all-time worst rating of 34% at the end of his first term,” Gallup reports. The president’s rating “has fallen 10 percentage points among US adults since he began his second term in January, including a 17-point decline among independents, to 29%.”

On Ukraine specifically, partisan divisions remain stark. Republicans approve of Trump’s handling of the situation at 70% – the lowest rating he receives from his party on foreign policy issues.

“Aside from the situation in Ukraine, his ratings on the other issues range from 81% to 88% within his party,” according to Gallup.

Democrats give Trump his highest marks on Ukraine compared to other issues, with 12% approval. 

Among independents, no more than 36% approve of Trump’s performance on any measured issue. Ukraine ranks among the lower-rated issues for this group, though Gallup did not specify the exact percentage.

The survey shows Trump “earns the highest marks for his handling of the situation with Iran (42%) and foreign affairs (41%).” His approval ratings on other issues include immigration at 38%, the economy at 37%, and the federal budget at 29%.

Gallup reported that “apart from the situation with Iran, which was not previously measured in Trump’s second term, ratings on each of the issues are lower now than earlier this year.” The poll included approximately 750 respondents.

[L'article Les États-Unis et le Japon concluent une entente commerciale a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

President Donald Trump’s ultimatum to Vladimir Putin over Ukraine has been interpreted by Moscow as permission to intensify military operations through the summer, Politico reported on 22 July, citing Russian analysts.

Trump delivered his demands during an Oval Office press conference last week, largely leaving NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte to outline the new American policy. The president stipulated that Putin must agree to a ceasefire by September or face additional economic penalties, including tariffs on countries trading with Western-sanctioned Russia.

The US will also sell Patriot air defense systems to Europe for transfer to Ukraine and provide additional weapons, though specific numbers and types remain undisclosed.

Russian markets responded positively to the announcement, with stocks rising 2.7 percent in the hours following Trump’s statement. The ruble also reversed some losses against the dollar.

“The ultimatum was essentially interpreted by Moscow as carte blanche to intensify its offensive in Ukraine,”  Russian political scientist Tatiana Stanovaya said, according to Politico.

Russian military analyst Yury Fedorov said the Kremlin had feared “immediate imposition” of secondary sanctions on Russian oil buyers and immediate deliveries of long-range missiles. Instead, Moscow now believes “Trump is not prepared and does not want to engage in a major confrontation with Russia,” according to Fedorov.

Trump’s former Russia czar Fiona Hill warned in a recent interview that the president is “deferential towards Putin because he really is worried about the risk of a nuclear exchange.” Hill added that Trump “thinks it’s just about real estate, about trade and who gets what, be it minerals, land or rare earths.”

“Putin doesn’t want a ceasefire. [He] wants a neutered Ukraine, not one that is able to withstand military pressure. Everybody sees this, apart from Trump,” Hill said.

Putin has maintained his preconditions for ending the war. At the recent St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, he reiterated demands for international recognition of territories he claims are Russian and Ukraine’s adoption of neutral, non-aligned status.

Ella Paneyakh, a sociologist at the New Eurasian Strategies Center, argues Putin needs to prolong the war because an abrupt halt would trigger “cruel and vicious competition for diminishing resources at every level of society.”

“Returning veterans — especially socially-connected contract soldiers — are likely to demand privileges and disrupt local balances of power, challenging both elites and institutions,” Paneyakh said. She warned that conflicts would “inevitably take place with those they perceive as ‘cowards’ who did not go to fight.”

In a landmark move for the digital asset industry, President Donald Trump signed the “GENIUS Act” (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for US Stablecoins) into law on July 18, 2025. The signing marks the culmination of years of debate and establishes the first comprehensive federal framework for payment stablecoins in United States history.

Trump hailed the legislation as an “exciting new frontier” for cryptocurrency, with Vice President JD Vance reportedly helping push the legislation through with late-night phone calls, according to CBS News reports.

What is the GENIUS Act? A breakdown

The GENIUS Act creates a dual federal-state regulatory system designed to bring stability and oversight to the rapidly growing payment stablecoin market, which currently stands at $250 billion. The law aims to prevent the kind of collapses seen with earlier algorithmic stablecoins and ensure that digital dollars are as reliable as their physical counterparts.

Key Pillars of the Legislation:

Strict 1:1 Reserve Backing: At its core, the law mandates that every stablecoin must be backed one-to-one by US dollars held in segregated accounts or by high-quality liquid assets, such as short-term US Treasury bills. Issuers are required to publish monthly, audited disclosures of their reserves, a requirement praised by market watchdogs.

Comprehensive Licensing Framework: The act permits both bank-affiliated entities and nonbank fintech firms to issue stablecoins, but under strict oversight. According to industry analysis, large-scale issuers will be regulated at the federal level by the Federal Reserve and the OCC, while smaller firms may opt for a state-level licensing regime, creating a tiered system.

Enhanced Transparency & Stability Measures: The law introduces robust anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) requirements, bringing stablecoin issuers in line with traditional financial institutions. It also establishes clear standards for reserve management and ensures that in the event of an issuer’s insolvency, stablecoin holders have priority claims on the reserves, as detailed by financial media reports.

Explore further

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Why it matters for crypto and finance

The passage of the GENIUS Act is more than a regulatory update; it’s a foundational shift for the digital asset industry in the US and globally.

Historic Milestone for Crypto Regulation: After years of regulatory uncertainty and conflicting agency statements, this is the first coherent federal law specifically targeting a major segment of the crypto market. The House passed the legislation with a decisive 308-122 vote after initial conservative opposition was overcome. It provides a clear rulebook for an industry that has long requested one, notes CoinDesk.

Boosts Market Confidence and Adoption: The new clarity is expected to attract significant institutional investment. The legislation addresses the $250 billion stablecoin market specifically, while overall crypto market capitalization has reached historic highs of $4 trillion, driven by renewed confidence in the stability of the ecosystem’s foundational assets.

Strengthens Consumer Protection: By ensuring verifiable reserve backing and prioritizing holder claims in bankruptcy, the law provides a safety net for consumers and businesses using stablecoins for payments and savings.

Limits High-Risk Algorithmic Coins & Yields: The act explicitly bans non-collateralized (algorithmic) coins from being marketed as “payment stablecoins” and prohibits issuers from offering interest or dividends to holders. This is a direct response to past market collapses and aims to curb speculative financial products masquerading as stable assets.

Short-Term & long-term impact

The effects of the GENIUS Act will unfold over months and years, shaping both domestic and international markets.

Short-Term (Next 6-12 Months):

Regulatory Implementation: Federal agencies, including the Federal Reserve, OCC, and Treasury Department, will begin implementing detailed rules and technical standards based on the law’s framework, according to the White House Fact Sheet.

Market Adjustments: Major stablecoin issuers like Circle (USDC), Tether (USDT), and Paxos (USDP) will need to align their reserve management and operations with the new federal requirements. This could lead to shifts in their reserve compositions or operational changes to meet compliance standards.

Long-Term (1-3 Years):

Global Influence: The US has now set a global benchmark for regulating stable digital money. Other major economic blocs, such as the European Union with its MiCA regulation, and nations in Asia, will likely observe the US implementation and may align their own policies.

Institutional Integration: With a clear regulatory framework, traditional financial institutions are expected to accelerate their entry into the stablecoin space, potentially launching their own bank-issued digital dollars.

Innovation within Guardrails: While limiting algorithmic coins, the law provides a clear path for innovation in fully-reserved, compliant stablecoins, potentially spurring development in areas like programmable payments and DeFi integration.

Key provisions at a glance

What’s next?

The law’s passage marks the beginning of implementation. Federal regulators including the Federal Reserve and Treasury Department will develop detailed rules and technical standards, as outlined in official White House communications. Major stablecoin issuers must prepare compliance strategies, while the international regulatory community will closely monitor the US approach as a potential global model.

The GENIUS Act represents a pivotal moment, transforming stablecoins from a legally gray area into a regulated financial instrument within the United States. It’s a significant move aimed at protecting consumers, ensuring financial stability, and cementing the US dollar’s central role in the future of digital finance, as noted by financial analysts. As the detailed regulations take shape, the industry should prepare for a new era of compliance, increased institutional adoption, and a more mature and stable crypto ecosystem.

FAQ

Q: What is the GENIUS Act signed in 2025?

A: The GENIUS Act is the first US federal law regulating payment stablecoins, signed into law on July 18, 2025. It establishes a federal-state system requiring 1:1 reserve backing, regular audits, and clear licensing for issuers to ensure stability and consumer protection.

Q: How does the GENIUS Act affect algorithmic stablecoins?

A: The act effectively bans non-collateralized (algorithmic) stablecoins from being labeled or marketed as “payment stablecoins.” It also prohibits stablecoin issuers from offering interest or yield to holders, targeting models that contributed to past market instability.

Q: What is the immediate impact on the crypto market?

A: The law is designed to boost market confidence and protect consumers. The legislation specifically addresses the $250 billion stablecoin market, while the broader crypto market has reached $4 trillion in capitalization, indicating positive market reaction to regulatory clarity.

Q: Which companies are most affected by this new law?

A: Major stablecoin issuers like Circle (USDC), Tether (USDT), and Paxos (USDP) are directly affected and must ensure their operations and reserve management comply with the new federal framework. It also opens opportunities for US banks to enter the market.

Q: How did the GENIUS Act pass through Congress?

A: The House of Representatives passed the legislation with a strong 308-122 vote, overcoming initial conservative opposition. The Senate had previously approved the bill, with Vice President JD Vance reportedly playing a key role in building support.

Q: When will the GENIUS Act be fully implemented?

A: While signed into law, federal agencies will develop and finalize detailed regulations in the coming months. Full implementation timelines will be established as regulatory frameworks are completed.

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[L'article Trump poursuit le Wall Street Journal pour 10 milliards $US a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

Oil Minister Hardeep Singh Puri says India is ready to meet its oil needs from alternative sources if Russia’s supplies are affected by secondary sanctions, Reuters reports.

US President Donald Trump has recently warned that countries continuing to buy Russian oil could face 100% tariffs if Moscow does not agree to a peace deal with Ukraine within 50 days. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also stated that due to the new economic measures, countries, including India, could suffer losses if continue business with Mooscow. 

At the same time, India emphasizes energy security as a priority and says it will make decisions based on market conditions. The head of the Indian Oil Corporation, A.S. Sahni, has stated that if Russian supplies are restricted, the company will revert to traditional import schemes used before the war in Ukraine, when Moscow’s export was lower than 2%. 

So far, some large private refineries, such as Reliance Industries and Nayara Energy, continue to purchase significant volumes of Russian oil, which led to an increase in imports from Russia in the first half of 2025.

Despite the restrictions the West has already imposed on Moscow, the Kremlin continues to use its “shadow” fleet. It includes a large group of oil tankers, many of which are old and poorly maintained. 

Earlier, Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence said a powerful explosion occurred in the engine room of Russia’s  Vilamoura tanker on 27 June, while it was en route from the Libyan port of Es-Zuwaytina.

It was located about 150 km northeast of Libya’s territorial waters and was carrying approximately 1 million barrels of crude oil. The tanker sailed under the Marshall Islands flag.

Donald Trump’s new Ukraine strategy—arming Kyiv while demanding Europe fund it—is drawing sharp debate. But according to former British Army Colonel Richard Kemp, it’s exactly the right move.

Writing in The Telegraph, Kemp says Trump has “correctly adjusted his policy” in response to Vladimir Putin’s refusal to negotiate. His critics, particularly in Europe, “would be more convincing if they had their own realistic proposals, but they do not,” Kemp argues.

“Put their money where their mouth is”

At the heart of Trump’s plan is a demand: the US will send weapons, but Europe must pay.

Kemp calls this “sheer genius, at least as a concept,” adding that it “forces the EU countries and Britain to put their money where their mouth is.”

The move also taps into American frustration over continued US funding of the war. “It ought to play well to American voters,” Kemp writes.

Patriots and priorities

Trump’s plan includes sending Patriot missile systems to shield Ukrainian cities from increased Russian attacks. These may come from US stockpiles or NATO reserves.

But Germany is hesitating. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said delivery could take months—a delay Kemp sees as telling.

“Despite the continent’s supposed insistence that it is prepared to do whatever it takes to help Ukraine win,” Kemp writes, Europe is still slow to act.

Zelenskyy to Trump: “Give us the tools”

In a recent call, Trump reportedly asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy whether Ukraine could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg. Kemp likens Zelensky’s response to Churchill: “Give us the tools and we will finish the job.”

Kemp stresses that while air defenses are important, long-range weapons and the freedom to use them would have a far greater effect on Putin.

“Smouldering military bases… might well” force a rethink in Moscow, he argues.

Targeting Russia’s economy

Trump has also proposed secondary tariffs on countries doing business with Russia. Kemp believes this economic pressure could be effective, but says EU leaders are reluctant.

When EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called Trump’s 50-day peace deadline “very long,” Kemp responded bluntly:

“Perhaps Kallas… should immediately impose EU secondary tariffs, rather than shouting criticism from the sidelines?”

“A chance of success” – if Europe steps up

Kemp concludes that Trump’s new strategy has “a chance of success”, but only if Europe gets serious. Otherwise, he warns, it will remain a US-led effort.

“Do they really want to help Ukraine win its war, or do they just want America to do it for them?”

Europe is considering using profits from nearly €200 billion of frozen Russian Central Bank assets to fund President Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package for Ukraine, The Telegraph reported on 15 July.

Trump confirmed on 14 July a new military assistance package that would provide Ukraine with “billions of dollars” worth of weaponry, funded and distributed by European NATO allies. Trump said the package includes up to 17 Patriot air defense systems.

The proposal to use frozen Russian assets to fund President Donald Trump’s $10 billion weapons package emerged during EU foreign ministers’ discussions in Brussels on 15 July, marking the first formal talks since Trump announced the NATO-coordinated arms deal.

Diplomatic sources told The Telegraph that ministers asked how Trump’s plan would work, though detailed information had yet to be shared with European capitals.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte said the deal involves NATO buying American air defence systems, missiles and ammunition before delivering them to Kyiv. At least eight member states have signed up to the scheme, announced during Trump’s Oval Office meeting with Rutte on 14 July.

“It is widely considered that NATO’s support mission for Ukraine – Nsatu – will play the lead role in coordinating purchases of American weapons and their eventual delivery to Kyiv,” a NATO official said.

The plan involves a central NATO-controlled fund topped up by European allies and Canada, which would purchase items from a Ukrainian government “shopping list” of American weapons.

Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski suggested the EU’s contribution could come from frozen Russian asset profits. “Should it be a burden shouldered by our taxpayers or the Russians,” he told colleagues, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Brussels had been developing its own weapons purchase fund using seized assets, but directing money toward Trump’s scheme is viewed as more efficient for maintaining US support for Ukraine. Contributing to the American plan would also count toward NATO’s 3.5 percent defense spending target.

During the 14 July meeting, Trump threatened “severe tariffs” against Russia if it doesn’t make peace within 50 days. He described Putin as “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

First deliveries of Patriot air-defence batteries are expected in Ukraine within days, though details about long-range missiles remain to be finalized by the White House.

Kremlin officials dismissed US President Donald Trump’s 50-day ultimatum for a Ukraine ceasefire while Russian President Vladimir Putin remained silent on the demands, the Institute for the Study of War reported on 15 July, citing Russian Telegram channels, controlled by Kremlin.

During a 14 July Oval Office meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump threatened “severe tariffs” if Russia doesn’t make peace within 50 days but declined to specify how far he would escalate if Putin increases pressure. Trump also called Putin “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told TASS on 15 July, according to the ISW, that Russia views “especially ultimatums” as “unacceptable.” Ryabkov said Russia’s position is “unshakable” and Moscow will continue pursuing war aims militarily if the US and NATO ignore Russian demands.

Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev posted that “Russia didn’t care” about Trump’s “ultimatum.” Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov expressed confidence Russia will cope with US tariffs, as Moscow is already “coping” with prior sanctions.

Putin has yet to officially respond and is likely attempting to identify narratives that could convince Trump not to follow through with tariffs in September 2025, according to ISW.

Trump announces $10 billion Ukraine aid

Trump announced a $10 billion military package for Ukraine including Patriot missiles and air defense weapons. NATO countries will purchase the weapons from the US and transfer them to Ukraine.

The package may authorize Ukraine to use 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at full 300-kilometer range, enabling strikes on Russian military bases and supply depots previously out of reach.

Trump considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles – the same weapons used against Iranian targets last month. “If fired from Ukraine, these could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg,” the Washington Post reported. Tomahawks aren’t included in current deliveries but could be deployed later.

Trump’s announcement followed his disappointment with Putin’s unwillingness to pursue ceasefire talks. Putin told Trump during their 3 July call that Moscow plans to escalate operations in eastern Ukraine within 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

“Trump is really pissed at Putin. His announcement tomorrow is going to be very aggressive,” Sen. Lindsey Graham told Axios.

President Donald Trump announced on 15 July that Patriot air defense missiles destined for Ukraine are already being shipped from Germany, marking a significant acceleration in military aid delivery to Ukraine.

“They’re already being shipped,” Trump told journalists at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, when asked about Patriot missiles and other weapons that NATO allies will purchase for Ukraine. The missiles are “coming in from Germany and then replaced by Germany,” he explained.

The announcement comes as part of a broader military assistance package that Trump confirmed on 14 July would provide Ukraine with “billions of dollars” worth of weaponry, funded and distributed by European NATO allies. Trump said the package includes up to 17 Patriot air defense systems.

“In all cases, the United States gets paid back in full,” Trump emphasized. “NATO’s going to pay us back for everything. In some cases, we’re going to be paid back by countries of the European Union directly. We’re always getting our money back in full.”

Ukraine needs more air defence systems to defend its citizen and infrustructure from Russian attacks that included more than 700 missile and drone strikes on some days last week.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte called the arrangement “completely logical” during an Oval Office meeting with Trump on 14 July. According to Rutte, Trump called  him on 10 July to say he had decided Ukraine should receive “everything necessary for self-defense,” but wanted Europeans to pay for it.

The initiative has attracted interest from Germany, Finland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Canada, Rutte noted.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on 14 July that Germany cannot provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems as the country has only six left from its original stock of 12. Pistorius reportedly planned to discuss US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth a proposal he made last month allowing Germany to purchase two Patriot systems from the US specifically for Ukraine

Beyond the Patriot systems, the military assistance reportedly may include authorization for Ukraine to use its 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at their full 300-kilometer range, enabling strikes on military bases, airfields, and supply depots deep inside Russia that are currently out of reach.

Trump also considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine – the same weapons used against Iranian targets last month. The Washington Post reported that “if fired from Ukraine, these could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg, and they were included in discussion as late as Friday.” However, the Tomahawks are not included in the current delivery list, though they could be deployed later if Trump seeks additional leverage.

These decisions represent a significant policy shift from Trump’s previous stance of providing only defensive equipment. The announcement followed Trump’s expressed “disappointment” with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Putin’s unwillingness to move towards a ceasefire and Russia’s escalating attacks on Kyiv and other cities.

During a phone call on 3 July, Putin reportedly told Trump that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

Trump also threatened to impose “severe tariffs” against Russia if it doesn’t make peace within 50 days. During the meeting with Rutte, Trump described Putin as “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

Trump confirmed he has not spoken to Putin since announcements made on 14 July.

[L'article Un accord commercial avec les États-Unis sans tarifs est-il encore possible?   a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said that the timeline of the President Trump’s 50-day ultimatum to Putin for Ukraine peace talks is too long as civilians die daily.

Trump announced on 14 July that the US would impose 100% tariffs on Russia’s trading partners unless Putin agrees to end the war within 50 days. Speaking with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump called these “secondary tariffs” and described them as “very severe.”

“On the one hand, it is very positive that President Trump is taking a strong stance on Russia. On the other hand, 50 days is a very long time if we see that they are killing innocent civilians, also every day,” Kallas said, according to The Telegraph.

US President Donald Trump expressed earlier his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin following revelations that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days.

“I’m disappointed in President Putin because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there,” Trump told reporters.

The statement comes after Putin reportedly informed Trump during their 3 July conversation that Russia intended to continue offensive operations until it secured the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.

Following the statemens, Trump also announced on 14 July a new military assistance package for Ukraine totaling $10 billion, which includes Patriot missiles, air defense weapons, and artillery.

The proposed tariffs fall short of a bipartisan Senate bill seeking 500% tariffs on Russian oil importers.

Trump and Rutte unveiled a NATO-funded weapons program for Ukraine. “We’re gonna make top-of-the-line weapons, and they’ll be sent to NATO. NATO may choose to have a certain number of them sent to other countries,” Trump said.

Rutte said Ukraine will receive “massive numbers of military equipment, both for air defense, but also missiles, ammunition, etc.” Germany and Norway voiced readiness to purchase three Patriot batteries for Ukraine delivery.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy thanked Trump for the weapons decision. 

The military assistance package will help Ukraine to defend its citizen and infrustructure from Russian attacks that included more than 700 missile and drone strikes on some days last week.

US President Donald Trump announced that America will manufacture weapons for Ukraine, with European countries covering the costs. The US will also authorize the transfer of Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine.

Trump disclosed these details during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Washington.

The revelation comes as Trump announced a new military assistance package for Ukraine totaling $10 billion, which includes Patriot missiles, air defense weapons, and artillery.

Trump specified that some European NATO members may purchase weapons from the US for themselves while transferring equipment from their own stockpiles to Ukraine. He named Germany among such countries.

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said on 14 July that Germany cannot provide Ukraine with additional Patriot air defense systems as the country has only six left from its original stock of 12. Pistorius reportedly planned to discuss US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth a proposal he made last month allowing Germany to purchase two Patriot systems from the US specifically for Ukraine.

The US President also said that countries possessing Patriot air defense systems can send them to Ukraine and receive replacements from America. Trump indicated the US can now allow a country with 17 Patriot systems to send “most of them” to Ukraine.

“We have one country that has 17 Patriot systems ready for shipment, a large number of these 17 will go to the battlefield. This can be done quickly,” Trump added.

The specific country Trump referenced remains unclear. Among European nations, Germany operates the most Patriot systems with 12 units.

Trump also stated he expects a deal to end the war within the next 50 days. Otherwise, the US will impose 100% tariffs against Russia.

The German government previously indicated readiness to purchase additional Patriot air defense systems from the United States and transfer them to Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that Ukraine is prepared to buy ten Patriot air defense systems from the US for $15 billion, with some European partners potentially assisting with financing.

Ukraine needs more air defence systems to defend its citizen and infrustructure from Russian attacks that included more than 700 missile and drone strikes on some days last week.

President Donald Trump asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy why Ukraine hadn’t struck Moscow and suggested the country should increase pressure on Vladimir Putin by targeting both the Russian capital and St. Petersburg, the Washington Post reported on 15 July.

The exchange occurred during a conversation last week between the two leaders, according to a source cited by the newspaper. When Trump questioned why Ukraine hadn’t hit Moscow, Zelenskyy responded: “We can if you give us the weapons.”

“Trump said Ukraine needed to put more pressure on Putin, not just Moscow but St. Petersburg, too,” the Washington Post reported, citing a source familiar with the discussion.

The revelation comes as Trump announced a new military assistance package for Ukraine totaling $10 billion, which includes Patriot missiles, air defense weapons, and artillery. NATO countries will purchase these weapons from the United States and transfer them to Ukraine.

The military assistance reportedly may also include authorization for Ukraine to use its 18 long-range ATACMS missiles at their full 300-kilometer range, allowing strikes on military bases, airfields, and supply depots deep inside Russia that are currently out of reach.

Trump also considered sending Tomahawk cruise missiles to Ukraine – the same weapons used against Iranian targets last month. “If fired from Ukraine, these could hit Moscow and St. Petersburg, and they were included in discussion as late as Friday,” the Washington Post reported. However, the Tomahawks are not included in the current delivery list, though they could be deployed later if Trump seeks additional leverage.

These decisions mark a significant policy shift from his previous stance of providing only defensive equipment.

The announcement came after US President Trump expressed his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Putin’s unwillingness to move towards a ceasefire and Russia’s escalating attacks on Kyiv and other cities. Putin reportedly said Trump during their phone call on 3 July that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

“Trump is really pissed at Putin. His announcement tomorrow is going to be very aggressive,” Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told Axios.

Trump also threatened to impose “severe tariffs” against Russia if it doesn’t make peace within 50 days. During Oval Office meeting on 14 July with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump described Putin as “a tough guy” and said he was “angry” at the Russian leader for not being “nice.”

When asked how far he would be willing to escalate if Putin decides to increase pressure, Trump declined to answer directly.

“Don’t ask me a question like that, ‘How far?'” Trump responded. “I just want to get the war settled.”

The military assistance package will help Ukraine to defend its citizen and infrustructure from Russian attacks that included more than 700 missile and drone strikes on some days last week.

[L'article Donald Trump fixe un ultimatum à la Russie pour mettre fin à la guerre en Ukraine  a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

The American foreign policy takes an unexpected turn as the US ramps up arms supplies to NATO for Ukraine. President Donald Trump has announced a sharp increase in arms shipments to European allies, intended for eventual transfer to Ukraine, a dramatic reversal of his earlier stance on the war, Axios reports. 

According to a well-informed source, the first wave of deliveries will see the US sell roughly $10 billion worth of weapons to NATO partners for Ukraine. 

“The supplies ultimately bound for Ukraine include missiles, air defense weaponry and artillery shells,” the report writes. 

This marks a fundamental shift in Trump’s stance towards Ukraine, as he initially refused to take sides and insisted on providing only defensive weapons to avoid escalating the war. 

In addition, he issued a stark ultimatum to Moscow: Russia has 50 days to agree to a peace deal, or face 100% tariffs. Journalists note that such a move could significantly impact global oil markets.

A White House official told Axios that Moscow must agree to a ceasefire during that time to avoid harsh sanctions and tariffs.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, for his part, reiterated that Ukraine seeks peace. He noted that the Alliance, which would pay for Kyiv’s weapons, would now assess what the country specifically needs. After that, NATO will properly structure military aid packages. The country will gain access to a wide array of weapons, including missile defense systems and ammunition.

President Donald Trump will announce a new plan to arm Ukraine on 14 July that is expected to include offensive weapons, marking a significant policy shift from his previous stance of providing only defensive equipment, Axios reported on 14 July, citing two sources with knowledge of the plans.

Two sources told Axios they had reason to believe the plan was likely to include long-range missiles that could reach targets deep inside Russian territory, including Moscow. However, neither was aware of any final decision.

The new initiative, which will be rolled out in a meeting between Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, will involve European countries paying for US-made weapons that will be sent to Ukraine.

The announcment came after Putin expressed his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Putin’s unwillingness to move towards a ceasefire and Russia’s escalating attacks on Kyiv and other cities. Putin reportedly said Trump during their phone call on 3 July that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days, “securing the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.”

“He wants to take all of it,” Trump reportedly told French President Emmanuel Macron after the call, according to Axios sources familiar with the discussion.

“Trump is really pissed at Putin. His announcement tomorrow is going to be very aggressive,” Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) told Axios.

Trump’s criticism of Putin marked a shift in tone, with the US president expressing doubt about whether the Russian leader “seeks peace” and saying Putin speaks “a lot of nonsense.”

Origins of the plan

The scheme was proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during the NATO summit two weeks ago. US and Ukrainian officials said the meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the summit was their best so far.

“Zelenskyy came like a normal human being, not crazy, and was dressed like a somebody that should be at NATO. He had a group of people with him that also seemed not crazy. So they had a good conversation,” a US official told Axios.

Zelenskyy wore a suit at the summit for the first time since 2022. The statement came after US officials criticized Zelenskyy for wearing military fatigues instead of a suit during his February 2025 Oval Office meeting.

Patriot systems and European funding

Trump told on 13 July, according to Reuters, that the weapons he would send Ukraine through European countries would include “various pieces of very sophisticated military (equipment),” including Patriot air defense batteries.

“European countries are going to pay us 100% for them. It is going to be business for us,” Trump said.

Sending offensive weapons would be a major shift for Trump, who had until recently said he would provide only defensive weapons to avoid escalating the conflict. T

he move comes after a halt on shipments that included missiles for Patriots, the US-made air defense systems that are currently protecting millions of Ukrainian civilians from Russia’s increasingly massive daily aerial attacks.

US President Donald Trump expressed his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin following revelations that Moscow plans to escalate military operations in eastern Ukraine within the next 60 days.

“I am very disappointed with President Putin. I thought he was a man of his word, but he is bombing everyone,” Trump told journalists at Andrews Air Force Base.

The statement comes after Putin reportedly informed Trump during their 3 July conversation that Russia intended to continue offensive operations until it secured the full administrative borders of occupied Ukrainian oblasts.

“He wants to take all of it,” Trump reportedly told French President Emmanuel Macron after the call, according to Axios sources familiar with the discussion.

Russia currently occupies about 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including most of Luhansk Oblast, two-thirds of Donetsk Oblast, and parts of Zaporizhzhia and Kherson oblasts. Moscow illegally declared the annexation of the four oblasts following sham referenda in late 2022.

The revelation coincides with intensified Russian assaults in Donetsk Oblast and attempts to breach neighboring Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, a region that has avoided significant incursions during the full-scale war.

Trump’s criticism of Putin marked a shift in tone, with the US president expressing doubt about whether the Russian leader “seeks peace” and saying Putin speaks “a lot of nonsense.”

Despite Moscow and Kyiv holding two rounds of face-to-face talks in Istanbul this year on 16 May and 2 June – the first direct negotiations in more than three years – the meetings led only to prisoner exchanges without progress toward a ceasefire. Russia continues pushing maximalist demands in negotiations.

When asked about potential sanctions against Russia, Trump responded: “We’ll see what happens tomorrow,” speaking on Sunday.

In response to the escalating situation, Trump announced plans to send Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, stating they are necessary because Putin “speaks well, but then bombs everyone in the evening.”

The president is expected to announce a new weapons package for Ukraine on 14 July, which sources suggest will include offensive weapons, likely long-range missiles capable of reaching targets deep inside Russian territory.

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham said “Trump is very angry at Putin” and expects record weapons deliveries to defend Ukraine against Russian aggression in the coming days.

[L'article Tarifs: Donald Trump menace maintenant l’Europe et le Mexique  a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

The US has thousands of outdated missiles that could immediately save Ukraine. Instead of being disposed of, these significant missile stocks could be transferred to Ukraine at no additional cost, says Former Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, Ukrainska Pravda reports. 

Zaluzhnyi notes that despite efforts to maintain support for Ukraine, European countries have proven unprepared for the rapid transformation of their defense industries, lagging behind Russia and primarily the capabilities of the US. He says some European countries are preparing for war as it was during World War II, burdening their budgets and failing to understand that the war since 2022 is of a different kind.

Moreover, in conditions of geopolitical instability, the very structure of Europe is expected to change. He states that European leaders fear their own electorates, who are not ready for worsening living conditions.

“Under such circumstances, expectations for long-term and, most importantly, urgently needed assistance should be approached with great caution,” he claims. 

At the same time, the US remains a country of virtually unlimited capabilities and the world’s most developed economy.

“Today, the US holds significant stocks of outdated or soon-to-be-decommissioned missiles, the transfer of which to Ukraine could be an effective solution,” emphasizes the former Ukrainian commander-in-chief.

This armament requires no additional budget costs for disposal and is critically necessary for Ukraine. 

By the end of 2023, the US had produced over 170,000 Hellfire missiles of various modifications. A significant portion of these munitions were manufactured between 1998 and 2018. They typically have a service life of 20 to 25 years, after which they require official write-off or disposal.

Furthermore, as part of a long-term Pentagon program, there is a gradual transition to the new JAGM missile system, which is replacing Hellfire both operationally and in production.

Therefore, Zaluzhnyi suggests that many of the outdated weapons will be either disposed of or transferred to other allied countries. 

“Ukraine can take advantage of this opportunity by systematically submitting official requests under various programs, justifying the need for urgent reinforcement of its defense capability and guaranteeing the US’s rational management of the stockpiles,” he concludes.

Earlier, sources reported that Trump planned to send Ukraine weapons through NATO. The proposed route would involve selling arms to the allies, who would then pass them on to Ukraine. The suggestion had already been discussed with European partners and Ukraine.

[L'article Donald Trump a annoncé une nouvelle augmentation des tarifs douaniers contre le Canada a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

[L'article Donald Trump menace d’imposer un droit de douane de 50% sur le cuivre a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering sending Ukraine an additional Patriot air defense system, a move that would mark his administration's first major weapons transfer to Kyiv, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on July 8, citing two defense officials.

The report is the latest in a series of contradictory messages from the Trump White House in recent days regarding military aid to Ukraine. While the Pentagon on July 2 announced a halt in weapons shipments to Kyiv due to dwindling U.S. stockpiles, Trump later claimed he wasn't responsible for the decision and wanted to send more weapons to Ukraine.

A U.S. defense official told the WSJ that Trump has asked the Pentagon to look into options for supplying Ukraine with more arms, including a Patriot air defense system. Officials are also reportedly exploring whether other nations can send Patriots to Kyiv.

The claim dovetails with recent media reports about the administration's plans to bolster Ukraine's air defenses. Axios reported on July 8 that the White House is pursuing a plan to have Germany sell another Patriot battery to Ukraine, with the U.S. and European allies splitting the cost of the purchase. Sources told the outlet that Trump also pledged to send 10 Patriot interceptor missiles to Kyiv.

If the U.S. provides Ukraine with an additional Patriot system, it would mark the first time Trump has approved a major military aid package to Kyiv that wasn't previously greenlighted by former U.S. President Joe Biden.

Washington has thus far provided Kyiv with three Patriots, a former Pentagon official told the WSJ. Germany has also sent three, while a group of European countries provided one. According to the official, not all systems are in use at the same time due to maintenance issues.

The U.S.-made air defense systems are in high demand around the world. Each system consists of two or three launchers, a radar, a command and control element, and interceptor missiles. Patriot missiles are also in short supply globally: Ukraine faces an urgent need for the munitions amid increased Russian aerial attacks, and the Guardian reported on July 8 that even the U.S. has only 25% of the interceptors required by its defense readiness plans.

According to one of the officials who spoke to the WSJ, the U.S. military would be able to supply an additional Patriot to Ukraine if ordered by the White House.

Putin throws ‘a lot of b*llshit’, Trump says as he ‘looks strongly’ at Russia sanctions bill

Trump also addressed U.S. legislation on sanctions, saying the Senate’s Russia sanctions bill was “totally optional” for him to implement or terminate. “I’m looking at it very strongly,” Trump said.

The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir

U.S. President Donald Trump said on July 8 he was "not happy" with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We get a lot of bullsh*t thrown at us by Putin," he said at a cabinet meeting. "He's very nice all the time, but it turns out to be meaningless."

Trump has vacillated for months between criticizing Putin and praising the Kremlin. So far, he has failed to increase military aid to Ukraine or sanction Russia despite Moscow's refusal to accept a ceasefire.

During his election campaign, Trump repeatedly pledged to end the war in Ukraine within "24 hours." However, his efforts to broker a peace deal between Ukraine and Russia have seen no progress.

Trump also addressed U.S. legislation on sanctions, saying the Senate's Russia sanctions bill was "totally optional" for him to implement or terminate.

"I'm looking at it very strongly," Trump said.

The bill would impose 500% tariffs on imports from countries purchasing Russian oil, gas, uranium, and other products. It was introduced in April but has seen no progress since then.

Earlier, Trump signaled growing openness to tougher measures against Moscow, ABC News reported on June 29.

According to Senator Lindsey Graham, Trump privately told him it was "time to move" the Russia sanctions bill.

"I’m confident the president is ready for us to act," Graham said.

The Senate is expected to vote on the bill after Congress returns from a break in July.

"(Putin is) killing a lot of people — his soldiers and their soldiers mostly. And it's now up to 7,000 a week," Trump said on July 8, referring to Russia's battlefield losses.

In recent weeks, Trump has been critical of the Russian president. Following a phone call with Putin on July 3, Trump said he was "very disappointed," signaling growing frustration with the Kremlin.

When asked by a journalist on July 8 whether he would take action, Trump responded: "Wouldn't be telling you... We want to have a little surprise."

Trump also commented on the the current pause in weapons deliveries to Ukraine. He pointed to the previous transfer of advanced systems, including Javelin anti-tank missiles and Patriot air defense systems, calling them "the best equipment in the world."

His remarks come after the United States halted military aid shipments to Ukraine on July 2 amid an internal Pentagon review of stockpile capacity. The freeze coincided with a surge in Russian aerial attacks, leaving Ukraine increasingly vulnerable amid a shortage of U.S.-supplied air defense systems.

The U.S. halted weapons shipments to Ukraine amid a capability review, the White House and Pentagon previously confirmed, with Trump later denying the pause.

On July 7, the Pentagon said it would renew shipments, saying the additional defensive weapons were intended to help Ukraine protect itself while the U.S. works toward "a lasting peace."

Dnipropetrovsk village likely contested despite Russia’s claim of its capture

The village of Dachne in the southern part of Dnipropetrovsk Oblast appears to be contested, according to the Finnish Black Bird Group open-source intelligence collective. The Russian Defense Ministry on July 7 claimed to have seized Dachne, which would mark the first village to be under Russian control in the industrial Dnipropetrovsk Oblast, located just west of the war-torn Donetsk Oblast. The Ukrainian military denied the claimed capture, calling it “disinformation.” Viktor Tregubov, spok

The Kyiv IndependentAsami Terajima

U.S. President Donald Trump has promised to send 10 Patriot interceptors to Ukraine - a smaller number than had been paused previously while en route to the country, Axios reported on July 8, citing its sources.

Trump has also suggested that Germany sell one of its Patriot batteries to Ukraine, according to three sources cited by Axios. They said the U.S. and European allies would split the cost of the purchase.

The discussion comes as Ukraine is calling upon its allies, particularly the United States, to support Ukrainian air defense by supplying "life-saving" Patriot systems and relevant missiles.

The Pentagon said on July 2 that some military assistance to Ukraine had been halted as the U.S. Defense Department conducts a review of foreign aid deliveries.

On July 7, the Pentagon said it would renew shipments, saying the additional defensive weapons were intended to help Ukraine protect itself while the U.S. works toward "a lasting peace."

Merz called Trump to request the release of the paused interceptors, according to Axios. During the call, Trump proposed that Germany sell one of its own Patriot batteries to Ukraine.

While no agreement has been reached, officials on both sides say negotiations are ongoing. German officials maintain that Berlin has already sent a higher share of its available Patriot systems to Ukraine than any other NATO country, including the U.S.

Russia has escalated its aerial campaign against Ukraine in recent weeks, launching large-scale missile and drone attacks that have killed and injured hundreds of civilians across multiple cities.

The suspension of U.S. arms deliveries, which include Patriots and precision-guided munitions, drew criticism from Kyiv. During a July 4 phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, Trump said he was not responsible for halting the aid, according to the Wall Street Journal.

He reportedly told Zelensky that a review of U.S. munitions stockpiles was initiated after last month's U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, but denied ordering a full pause in shipments.

NBC News reported that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth halted the shipments unilaterally on July 2, despite internal Pentagon assessments that the move would not jeopardize U.S. military readiness.

Special Envoy Keith Kellogg and Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov are set to meet in Rome later this week to discuss resuming the stalled military aid, Politico reported on July 7.

Seeing war through the lens of narcissism

We usually think of narcissism as a personal flaw — a grandiose ego, a craving for attention, a lack of empathy. But what if narcissism is not just a diagnosis, but a lens? A way of understanding how individuals — and even entire nations — cope with wounds too painful to face directly?

The Kyiv IndependentDr. Gary E Myers

Editor's Note: Read the latest developments to this story.

Ukraine's ambassador to the U.S. has been informed by President Volodymyr Zelensky that she is to be dismissed, a source in the President's Office confirmed to the Kyiv Independent on July 8.

Oksana Markarova has held the post since April 2021, and played a central role in coordinating U.S. military and financial support during the early phases of Russia's full-scale invasion.

But her future in the role was thrown into doubt earlier this week when it was revealed that Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed a potential change during a recent phone call, a source in the President's Office told the Kyiv Independent on July 7.

According to the source, the topic of replacing her was raised by Kyiv, suggesting the move could be "useful for both sides." The source added that there are multiple "strong candidates" in the running.

The source added that there are multiple "strong candidates" in the running.Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko are among the candidates, Bloomberg previously reported.

The possible reshuffle comes at a moment of renewed tension between Kyiv and Washington. The U.S. Defense Department recently paused shipments of critical weapons systems, including Patriot missiles and precision-guided munitions, sparking concern in Kyiv.

The discussion about Ukraine's representation in Washington also coincides with longstanding speculation about a broader government reshuffle.

‘Neither side wasted time’ — Ukraine’s economy minister on minerals deal negotiations with Trump’s ‘business-oriented’ administration

Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko says her task is simple — to get the investment fund behind the closely watched minerals deal with the U.S. off the ground, and prove its detractors wrong. “There are so many criticisms from different parties that this fund is just a piece of paper we can put on the shelves — that it won’t be operational,” Svyrydenko, who is also Ukraine’s first deputy prime minister, tells the Kyiv Independent at Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers on July 4, the morning

The Kyiv IndependentLiliane Bivings

U.S. President Donald Trump told President Volodymyr Zelensky during a phone call on July 4 that he was not responsible for the suspension of U.S. arms shipments to Ukraine, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on July 7, citing unnamed sources familiar with the matter.

The suspension of aid, which includes Patriot air defense missiles and precision-guided munitions, has drawn criticism from Kyiv amid an intensifying Russian aerial campaign that has killed and injured hundreds of civilians in recent weeks.

According to WSJ, Trump told the Ukrainian president that he had ordered a review of Pentagon munitions stockpiles following last month's U.S. strikes on Iran's nuclear sites, but he did not direct the military to halt weapons deliveries.

NBC News reported on July 4 that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unilaterally halted the shipment to Ukraine on July 2, despite internal Pentagon assessments showing the aid would not compromise U.S. military readiness.

According to Politico, U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov are scheduled to meet in Rome later this week to discuss restarting U.S. military aid to Ukraine.

Trump did not acknowledge a halt in U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine. On July 7, he said the U.S. would provide Ukraine with "more weapons," pointing to the scale of Russia's attacks.

"They have to be able to defend themselves, they're getting hit very hard now," Trump told reporters alongside a U.S. and Israeli delegation at the White House.

The comments follow Trump's July 3 call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, after which he said he was "very disappointed" with the Kremlin's continued refusal to end hostilities.

The following day, Trump and Zelensky spoke by phone in what the U.S. president described as a "very strategic" conversation focused on Ukraine's need for air defenses.

Two rounds of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine held in Istanbul in May and June led only to prisoner exchanges, with no breakthrough on ending hostilities. Moscow has maintained maximalist conditions while rejecting calls for an unconditional ceasefire.

Russia striking NATO while China invades Taiwan ‘plausible’ scenario, experts say

If Beijing moves against Taiwan, NATO might soon find itself in a two-front war with China and Russia — or so the alliance’s secretary general believes. “If Xi Jinping would attack Taiwan, he would first make sure that he makes a call to his very junior partner in all of this, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin… and telling him, ‘Hey, I’m going to do this, and I need you to to keep them busy in Europe by attacking NATO territory,’” Secretary General Mark Rutte said in a July 5 interview with the New

The Kyiv IndependentMartin Fornusek

The United States will send "more weapons" to Ukraine amid intensified Russian strikes, U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters on July 7, adding that he is disappointed in Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We're gonna send some more weapons we have to them, they have to be able to defend themselves, they're getting hit very hard now," Trump said alongside a U.S. and Israeli delegation at the White House.

The U.S. halted weapons shipments to Ukraine amid a capability review, the White House and Pentagon previously confirmed, with Trump later denying the pause.

Trump previously said he was disappointed in Putin for not making progress to end Russia's war against Ukraine, following a phone call between the two leaders on July 3.

On July 7, Trump again said he was unhappy with Putin for failing to cooperate with U.S. efforts to end the war in Ukraine.

"It's a horrible thing, and I'm not happy with President Putin at all," Trump said. "I'm disappointed frankly that President Putin hasn't stopped."

He noted that the additional assistance the U.S. will supply to Ukraine will mainly consist of defense weapons amid increased Russian attacks.

"They're getting hit very hard. We're gonna have to send more weapons, your defensive weapons primarily, but they're getting hit very, very hard. So many people are dying in that mess," Trump said.

Later on July 7 the Pentagon released a statement confirming more weapons would be sent to Ukraine.

"At President Trump's direction, the Department of Defense is sending additional defensive weapons to Ukraine to ensure the Ukrainians can defend themselves while we work to secure a lasting peace and ensure the killing stops," it read.

‘Neither side wasted time’ — Ukraine’s economy minister on minerals deal negotiations with Trump’s ‘business-oriented’ administration

Ukraine’s Economy Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko says her task is simple — to get the investment fund behind the closely watched minerals deal with the U.S. off the ground, and prove its detractors wrong. “There are so many criticisms from different parties that this fund is just a piece of paper we can put on the shelves — that it won’t be operational,” Svyrydenko, who is also Ukraine’s first deputy prime minister, tells the Kyiv Independent at Ukraine’s Cabinet of Ministers on July 4, the morning

The Kyiv IndependentLiliane Bivings

"Our framework for POTUS to evaluate military shipments across the globe remains in effect and is integral to our America First defense priorities."

President Volodymyr Zelensky has previously said he and Trump discussed supplying Ukraine with additional Patriot missile systems following a phone call between the two on July 4.

Zelensky described his recent phone call with Trump as "the best conversation in all this time" in an evening address on July 5.

"Patriot (missiles) are key to protection from ballistic (missiles). We discussed several other important issues that our teams will work out in detail at meetings in the near future," he said.

Trump described his July 3 conversation with Putin as disappointing, saying that the call "didn't make any progress" in stopping Russia's war against Ukraine.

"I'm very disappointed with the conversation I had today with President Putin," Trump told journalists. "Because I don't think he's there. And I'm very disappointed.  I don't think he's looking to stop this fighting."

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell confirmed on July 2 that some military assistance to Ukraine has been halted as the U.S. Defense Department conducts a review of foreign aid deliveries.

"This capability review... is being conducted to ensure U.S. military aid aligns with our defense priorities... We see this as a common-sense, pragmatic step towards having a framework to evaluate what munitions are sent and where," Parnell said.

Despite the Pentagon announcement, Trump did not acknowledge a halt in U.S. weapons shipments to Ukraine.

"Why did you pause weapons shipments to Ukraine?" a reporter asked Trump as the U.S. president prepared to board Air Force One on July 3.

"We haven't," Trump replied. "We're giving weapons."

Ukraine war latest: Russian airports cancel nearly 300 flights amid drone attacks on Russia

Key developments on July 7: * Russian airports cancel nearly 300 flights amid drone attacks on Russia * BRICS summit statement condemns attacks on Russian railways, avoids urging Russia to cease war efforts in Ukraine * Ukrainian drone strike hits major oil refinery in Russia’s Krasnodar Krai, HUR source claims * Ukraine confirms drone strike on Russian chemical plant near Moscow * Russia strikes conscription offices in Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, Ukraine says Several Russian airports have

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed a potential change in Ukraine's ambassador in Washington during a recent phone call, a source familiar with the conversation told the Kyiv Independent.

Oksana Markarova has held the post since April 2021, and played a central role in coordinating U.S. military and financial support during the early phases of Russia's full-scale invasion.

According to the source, the topic of replacing her was raised by Kyiv, suggesting the move could be "useful for both sides." The source added that there are multiple "strong candidates" in the running.

Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Deputy Prime Minister Olha Stefanishyna, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, and Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko are among the candidates, Bloomberg reported.

When contacted by the Kyiv Independent, a spokesperson for Stefanishyna said they "do not comment on rumors."

The possible reshuffle comes at a moment of renewed tension between Kyiv and Washington. The U.S. Defense Department recently paused shipments of critical weapons systems, including Patriot missiles and precision-guided munitions, sparking concern in Kyiv.

The discussion about Ukraine's representation in Washington also coincides with longstanding speculation about a broader government reshuffle.

Rumors about replacing Shmyhal as prime minister have circulated since last summer. Although Zelensky replaced several officials in September 2024, Shmyhal remained in office.

Halushchenko, one of the potential ambassadorial candidates, has faced criticism in parliament. Lawmakers from the Energy Committee, led by lawmaker Inna Sovsun, introduced a motion to dismiss him in January, citing alleged corruption.

Shmyhal has served as Ukraine's Prime Minister since March 2020, overseeing national governance during a period marked by reforms and wartime crises. Before his premiership, he held key roles as Ivano-Frankivsk Oblast Governor and Vice Prime Minister.

Stefanishyna is a seasoned Ukrainian diplomat and expert in European integration who has held high-level government roles since 2020. In September 2024, she was appointed Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration, and Justice Minister.

Umerov is Ukraine's current Defence Minister, appointed in September 2023. He started his political career as a member of the Parliament for the opposition party Voice (Holos). Umerov played a major role in peace talks with Russia in the early phase of the full-scale war.

The ambassadorial review comes as Kyiv seeks to strengthen its diplomatic ties with Washington.

Zelensky described his July 5 phone call with Trump as "the best conversation in all this time." The U.S. president echoed the sentiment, calling the exchange "very strategic."

As Ukraine awaits stalled US weapons, Trump says he’s ‘helping a lot’ in war with Russia

“I am helping Ukraine. I’m helping it a lot,” U.S. President Donald Trump said when asked in Washington why the U.S. does not support Ukraine as strongly as it supports Israel.

The Kyiv IndependentTim Zadorozhnyy

U.S. President Donald Trump said on July 6 that his administration is "helping a lot" when it comes to Ukraine, defending his approach to the ongoing war.

"I am helping Ukraine. I'm helping it a lot," Trump told reporters when asked in Washington why the U.S. does not support Ukraine as strongly as it supports Israel.

The comment follows a growing outcry in Kyiv over the U.S. Defense Department's decision to pause deliveries of key weapons, including Patriot air defense missiles and precision-guided munitions.

Ukrainian officials have warned that the delay leaves the country more vulnerable to intensified Russian missile and drone attacks, which have killed and injured hundreds of civilians in recent weeks.

While Trump has repeatedly said he wants to end the war and support Ukraine, his administration has not imposed new sanctions on Russia since he took office in January and has yet to approve additional military assistance packages.

Instead, the Trump administration has prioritized military action in the Middle East. The U.S. launched air strikes on three nuclear sites in Iran on June 21, a move critics say stands in contrast to Washington's cautious posture toward Moscow.

Speaking on Air Force One on July 5, Trump expressed frustration over his July 3 phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"It just seems like he wants to go all the way and just keep killing people," Trump said.

Trump also spoke with President Volodymyr Zelensky on July 4 in what the U.S. president later described as a "very strategic" call. Trump said the two discussed Ukraine's urgent need for air defenses.

"They're going to need something because they're being hit pretty hard," Trump said, adding that supplying Patriot systems was a possibility.

Despite those comments, there have been no new authorizations for weapons deliveries, and Trump's administration has continued to avoid direct economic pressure on Moscow.

Two rounds of direct talks between Russia and Ukraine held in Istanbul in May and June led only to prisoner exchanges, with no breakthrough on ending hostilities. Moscow has maintained maximalist conditions while rejecting calls for an unconditional ceasefire.

Ukraine war latest: Drones attack Russia’s Black Sea Fleet; Russian pipelines explode in country’s Far East, HUR says

Key developments on July 5-6: * Drones reportedly attack Russia’s Black Sea fleet * Pipelines supplying Russian military explode in Russia’s Far East, HUR source says * Ukrainian drone strike on Russian airfield hits bomb depot, aircraft * Ukraine hits Russian electronic warfare facility making Shahed, Iskander components, General Staff says * Ukraine’s army chief warns of new Russian offensives in northeast as he visits Kharkiv Oblast front Drones attacked Russia’s Black Sea Fleet at the

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

U.S. President Donald Trump said on July 6 that his administration will impose an additional 10% tariff on countries aligning themselves with what he described as the BRICS group's "anti-American policy."

"There will be no exceptions to this policy," Trump wrote on the social network Truth Social.

The announcement coincided with the BRICS summit in Brazil, where member states, including Russia, China, and India, adopted a declaration condemning strikes on Iran and Israel's operations in Gaza.

The document did not explicitly name the U.S. but criticized actions perceived as destabilizing. On June 21, the country carried out strikes on three major Iranian nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan.

Trump's latest trade threat escalates tensions with the BRICS group, which has increasingly sought to reduce dependence on the U.S. dollar and shift toward a multipolar world order.

Kirill Dmitriev, head of Russia's sovereign wealth fund, described the summit as the start of a new "Global South" era, highlighting the group's aim to reshape the global order.

Though Russian President Vladimir Putin said in October 2024 that there are no immediate plans to create a BRICS currency, he highlighted the group's goal of financial sovereignty.

In January, Trump warned of 100% tariffs on BRICS members if they attempt to adopt a new or existing currency to replace the U.S. dollar in international trade.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov attended the BRICS summit in person, while Putin participated via video due to an outstanding International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant. Brazil, the summit's host, is an ICC member and obligated to arrest Putin if he enters the country.

The declaration also condemned incidents on Russian railway infrastructure and called for a negotiated settlement in the war against Ukraine. However, it avoided urging Russia to halt its full-scale invasion.

BRICS expanded in 2024, admitting Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates as new members. In October 2024, Putin hosted a BRICS forum in Kazan, attended by 36 world leaders.

Russian airports cancel nearly 300 flights amid drone attacks on Russia

Rosaviatsia reported on the evening of July 6 that 287 flights had been grounded across three major airports: Moscow’s Sheremetyevo, St. Petersburg’s Pulkovo, and Strigino Airport in Nizhny Novgorod.

The Kyiv IndependentOlena Goncharova

U.S. President Donald Trump on July 6 commented on tech billionaire Elon Musk's plan to create a new political party, calling it "ridiculous" and warning that third-party movements have historically failed in the United States.

"I think creating a third party is ridiculous... we've had tremendous success with the Republican Party," Trump told reporters on July 6 before boarding Air Force One in Morristown. "The Democrats have lost their way, but it's always been a two-party system, and I think creating a third party just adds to the confusion."

These comments came after Musk unveiled plans on July 5 to launch a new political force in the U.S. called the "America Party."

Musk said the party's goal is to "give you back your freedom" and offer an alternative to the entrenched Republican and Democratic systems, a few weeks after a public split with Trump.

The strained relationship between Musk and Trump began to deteriorate significantly after a period when Musk publicly supported Trump's re-election bid and held a high-profile role in the U.S. government's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

Musk's new party announcement followed Trump signing a major tax and spending bill into law, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, legislation that Musk had strongly criticized.

Trump later commented further in a Truth Social post, saying that third parties bring "complete and total disruption and chaos" and criticizing Musk.

"I am saddened to watch Elon Musk go completely 'off the rails,' essentially becoming a TRAIN WRECK over the past five weeks," Trump wrote.

Trump also linked Musk's political shift to his frustration over the recently passed Republican bill eliminating the federal electric vehicle mandate.

"It is a Great Bill but, unfortunately for Elon, it eliminates the ridiculous Electric Vehicle (EV) Mandate, which would have forced everyone to buy an Electric Car in a short period of time. I have been strongly opposed to that from the very beginning," Trump added.

Musk led DOGE until May 30 and had been a key figure in dismantling U.S. foreign aid institutions, including USAID, which delivered billions in aid to Ukraine.

Musk launches ‘America Party’ following public feud with Trump

The announcement came a day after Trump signed his sweeping tax cut and spending bill into law, a legislative act that Musk has fiercely opposed.

The Kyiv IndependentOlena Goncharova

[L'article Les États-Unis comptent imposer début août leurs tarifs «réciproques»   a d'abord été publié dans InfoBref.]

Weeks after a high-profile public falling out with U.S. President Donald Trump, tech mogul Elon Musk announced the creation of a new political party in the United States, dubbed the "America Party."

Musk said on July 5 that the party's aim is to "give you back your freedom" and challenge the traditional two-party Republican and Democratic system.

The announcement came a day after Trump signed his sweeping tax cut and spending bill into law, a legislative act that Musk has fiercely opposed. It remains unclear if the America Party has been formally registered with election authorities, but Musk indicated it would launch "next year."

Musk's decision follows a poll he conducted on X on July 4, asking his followers if he should create a new political party.He cited the overwhelming support, writing: "By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party and you shall have it! When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste & graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy."

The strained relationship between Musk and Trump began to deteriorate significantly after a period where Musk publicly supported Trump's re-election bid and held a high-profile role in the U.S. government's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).

In May, Musk announced his departure from DOGE, citing the end of his "scheduled time." Initially, Trump praised him as "one of the greatest business leaders and innovators the world has ever produced."

However, tensions escalated sharply on May 22 after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," a significant tax-cut and spending bill that Trump signed into law on Friday.

Musk vehemently condemned the legislation, calling it a "massive, outrageous, pork-filled Congressional spending bill is a disgusting abomination." He argued that the bill's spending would exacerbate the "already gigantic budget deficit" and "burden American citizens with crushingly unsustainable debt."

Adding to the friction earlier this week, Trump threatened to cut off billions of dollars in federal subsidies to Musk's companies and even hinted at the possibility of deporting the South Africa-born entrepreneur.

‘Disingenuous’ Hegseth paused Ukraine weapons despite Pentagon finding aid wouldn’t hurt US readiness, NBC reports

A senior military review had concluded that while some munitions stockpiles, including precision weapons, were low, they had not fallen below critical thresholds, according to NBC. Still, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth opted to stop the shipment. This is reportedly his third such move since February.

The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir

Europe must dramatically ramp up its defenses against a resurgent Russia, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said in an interview with the New York Times published on July 5, crediting U.S. President Donald Trump for driving the alliance to unprecedented levels of commitment.

Rutte, who assumed his role late last year after 14 years as Prime Minister of the Netherlands, has been navigating NATO through a period marked by Russia's expansionist ambitions and questions about the reliability of the United States as an ally.

"Russia is reconstituting itself at a pace and a speed which is unparalleled in recent history," he told the outlet, adding that "...they are now producing three times as much ammunition in three months as the whole of NATO is doing in a year. This is unsustainable, but the Russians are working together with the North Koreans, with the Chinese and Iranians, the mullahs, in fighting this unprovoked war of aggression against Ukraine."

He emphasized the interconnectedness of security across different regions, noting that a secure Arctic is vital due to increased Chinese and Russian activity, and a secure Atlantic is "crucial" for the U.S. "If the Arctic, if the Atlantic Ocean, if Europe is not secure, the U.S. has a big problem," Rutte said, arguing that Russia is ultimately aiming to attack the U.S.

The Secretary General strongly dismissed Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's comments that NATO's new defense spending targets would "bankrupt" members.

"I know Sergey Lavrov very well. He has been foreign minister of Russia since the birth of Jesus Christ, and I’ve never taken him seriously. When you talk about fake news, listen to Sergey Lavrov," Rutte told the NYT. He believes Lavrov's comments are "clearly evidence that the deterrence is working."

Rutte acknowledged concerns about the defense industrial output across the alliance, adding that, "we simply lack the defense industrial base to produce the weapons we need to make sure that we can deter the Russians or the North Koreans or whoever to attack us." He underscored the importance of not just financial investment, but also having sufficient personnel and industrial capacity to effectively utilize weaponry.

On the subject of Ukraine, Rutte confirmed that European allies have significantly increased their financial commitment. "The Europeans have now cobbled together $35 billion in military aid this year to deliver to Ukraine, which is more than last year," he said. He viewed this as a logical and fair shift, with the U.S. expecting Europeans to "take more of the burden when it comes to the concrete support to Ukraine."

While acknowledging the complex discussions surrounding peace talks, Rutte recognized President Donald Trump's role in initiating dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"He is the one who broke the deadlock with Putin. When he became president in January, he started these discussions with Putin, and he was the only one who was able to do this. This had to happen. A direct dialogue between the American president and the president of the Russian Federation."

However, Rutte admitted that subsequent peace talks in Istanbul involved Russia sending a less serious delegation, leading to the conclusion that "we are not there yet, and that means that in the meantime you have to make sure that Ukraine has what it needs to stay in the fight."

Despite some perceived divergences in approach between NATO and the U.S. regarding peace talks, Rutte insisted on the American administration's commitment to the conflict's importance.

"The American administration completely takes the view and shares it with the Europeans that this war in Ukraine is crucial for the defense of NATO territory going forward and that we have to make sure that Ukraine is in the strongest possible position to stop the Russians from taking more territory, and that when it comes to a cease-fire or, even better, a peace deal, that Ukraine with some help will be able to prevent Putin from ever attacking Ukraine again in the future."

Trump says Putin ‘wants to keep killing people,’ signals US may send Patriots to Ukraine

“It just seems like he wants to go all the way and just keep killing people. It’s not good,” U.S. President Donald Trump said.

The Kyiv IndependentTim Zadorozhnyy

President Volodymyr Zelensky described his recent phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump as "the best conversation in all this time" in an evening address on July 5.

"Patriot (missiles) are key to protection from ballistic (missiles). We discussed several other important issues that our teams will work out in detail at meetings in the near future," Zelensky said.

The two leaders spoke on July 4, agreeing to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses amid intensified Russian strikes, Zelensky said earlier.

A day prior to speaking with Zelensky, Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin in an effort to discuss ending Russia's war against Ukraine.

"This was probably the best conversation in all this time, it was maximally productive. We discussed the topic of air defenses. I am grateful for the readiness to help," Zelensky said, describing his phone call with Trump.

Relations between Ukraine and the U.S. have previously been strained as the White House pushed Kyiv to sign a lucrative bilateral minerals deal and tried to broker a peace deal with Moscow that did not rule out major concessions for Ukraine.

Zelensky's phone call with the U.S. leader followed media reports and announcements from Washington of a pause in military assistance to Ukraine. Trump, on July 3, denied that Washington has stopped supplying weapons to Kyiv.

Trump described his July 3 conversation with Putin as disappointing, saying that the call "didn't make any progress" in stopping Russia's war against Ukraine.

"I'm very disappointed with the conversation I had today with President Putin," Trump told journalists. "Because I don't think he's there. And I'm very disappointed.  I don't think he's looking to stop this fighting."

Russia launches another horrific attack on Kyiv hours after Trump-Putin call

Ripe cherries and apricots fill the stalls of fruit vendors, while people bustle about on a scorching July Friday. Yet just a five-minute walk from the stand, the scene shifts dramatically: a gaping hole mars the five-story residential building where the stairwell once stood. Rescuers tirelessly sift through the

The Kyiv IndependentKateryna Hodunova