US President-elect Donald Trump has expressed strong disapproval of the Biden administration’s decision to allow Ukrainian forces to utilize U.S. medium-range missiles against Russia.
He labelled the move as “crazy” and questioned, “Why are we doing that?”
Trump emphasized that it is in the best interest of both Kyiv and Moscow to seek an end to the ongoing conflict.
Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Warsaw does not plan to deploy troops to Ukraine in the event of a ceasefire, while the NATO Secretary General called for Europe to adopt a “wartime mindset” in response to Russian aggression.
Latest Developments in the Ukraine Conflict
Here are the key updates regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine as of Thursday, December 12:
NATO Calls for Increased Defense Spending
NATO head Mark Rutte has urged member countries to “turbocharge” defence spending, asserting that the alliance is unprepared for the challenges posed by Russia in the coming years.
Speaking in Brussels, Rutte warned:
“Russia is preparing for a long-term confrontation with Ukraine and with us. It is time to shift to a wartime mindset and significantly increase our defense production and spending.”
Orban’s Christmas Ceasefire Proposal Rejected
Russian President Vladimir Putin has backed Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s initiative for a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine and a prisoner exchange.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected this proposal, criticizing Orban for undermining Western unity.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia fully supports Orban’s efforts aimed at finding a peaceful resolution and addressing humanitarian issues related to prisoners of war.
Trump’s Criticism of Missile Use
In his remarks on Thursday, Trump reiterated his opposition to Ukraine’s use of U.S.-made missiles deep within Russian territory, calling it an escalation of the conflict.
He stated:
“It’s crazy what’s taking place… We’re just escalating this war and making it worse. That should not have been allowed.”
This policy shift came after President Biden lifted restrictions last month amid rising tensions and North Korea’s deployment of troops to support Russia.
Trump has expressed his intention to end the war quickly upon taking office but has not provided specific details on how he plans to achieve this goal.
Continued Military Developments
As fighting intensifies, Ukrainian forces are engaged in ongoing battles against Russian troops, particularly around key areas like Pokrovsk.
The situation remains fluid, with both sides suffering significant casualties.
A Complex Geopolitical Landscape
As the conflict in Ukraine continues to evolve, Trump’s criticism of U.S. policy highlights the complexities surrounding international support for Ukraine.
With NATO leaders advocating for increased defense spending and strategic readiness, the geopolitical landscape remains precarious as both sides navigate their next moves amid ongoing hostilities.
Source: DW
