Just days after US President Donald Trump blocked weapon supplies to Ukraine, Russia responded with its biggest air attack of the war. Using 550 missiles and drones, Russia targeted several areas, including Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv. The city’s skyline lit up with fireballs and thick smoke during the overnight assault.

Trump-Putin Call and Its Fallout

The Russian assault came only hours after Trump had a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Although Trump said they “didn’t make any progress” on ending the war, Putin clearly saw the call as a green light. The Kremlin later issued a statement saying, “Russia will not back down” unless the “root causes” were addressed.

What Does ‘Root Causes’ Mean?

In Russia’s view, these “root causes” refer to extreme demands:

• Ukraine must recognize all territories that Russia has annexed.

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy must step down.

• Ukraine must change its constitution to weaken its military.

• Ukraine must avoid NATO membership and allow Russian cultural influence.

• The country must also restrict military ties with Western nations.

If Ukraine accepted these conditions, it would lose its independence.

Pattern of Events Repeats

This isn’t the first time Trump’s actions have benefited Russia. In recent months, he has repeatedly criticized Ukraine and delayed approved weapon shipments. Each time, Russia took advantage of the delay and increased attacks. This pattern continued with the latest assault.

Earlier this week, Trump refused to release air defence systems that Ukraine had already been cleared to buy. He said, “We’ve given so many weapons,” downplaying Ukraine’s needs.

Russia quickly understood Trump’s stance and responded by launching 539 drones and 11 ballistic missiles. This marked the most intense air attack since the war began.

Previous Consequences of US Aid Cuts

This wasn’t the first setback Ukraine faced due to Trump’s policy decisions. Earlier this year, Trump suddenly suspended military and intelligence support. At the time, Ukraine had made significant progress in the Kursk region. That gain gave Ukraine some negotiating power. However, after Trump’s move, Russia launched a counterattack and retook almost the entire region.

Damage from the Overnight Attack

According to President Zelenskyy, at least 23 people were injured in the latest airstrike. Russian forces mainly targeted civilians and key infrastructure, following a troubling trend.

A United Nations report released this month revealed that civilian deaths from Russian attacks increased by 50% between January and June.

Trump to Speak with Zelenskyy

After speaking with Putin, Trump is now expected to talk with Zelenskyy. Based on previous patterns, he may pressure Zelenskyy to accept Russia’s terms and end the war—no matter what it means for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

On the other hand, Zelenskyy is likely to ask for immediate resumption of US military aid, including the purchase of Patriot air defence systems. He will probably urge Trump to adopt a tougher approach toward Russia.

Trump’s Support Tilts Toward Russia

Even though Trump has publicly said he’s “not happy” with Putin, his actions have only helped Russia. He hasn’t imposed any new sanctions. He hasn’t increased arms support for Ukraine. Instead, he called Zelenskyy a “warmonger” just for requesting more air defence equipment.

So far, Trump’s approach has weakened Ukraine’s position, giving Putin more room to act—and fewer consequences to fear.