In a remarkable twist, aerial assaults from Russia on Ukraine have more than doubled since President Donald Trump regained the White House in January, according to a recent analysis by BBC Verify. This increase comes despite Trump's calls for a ceasefire during his 2024 campaign, where he argued he could bring an end to the conflict in just one day.
Under Trump’s administration, recorded attacks have surged to the highest levels seen since the conflict began. While attacks had already been on the rise during former President Joe Biden's term, a sharp escalation was noted immediately following Trump's election in November. Between January 20 and July 19, Russian forces launched a staggering 27,158 munitions—a stark contrast to the 11,614 launched in the last six months of Biden’s presidency.
Critics of Trump argue that by briefly pausing military supplies to Ukraine, his administration has unintentionally emboldened Moscow, enabling an uptick in missile and drone production, which has reportedly increased by 66% over the past year. The situation has sparked renewed calls in Washington for the U.S. to send more advanced military gear, including Patriot missile batteries, to aid Ukraine’s air defenses.
Despite Trump expressing frustration over escalating attacks, his efforts to broker peace have yet to yield significant results, as Russian offensives continue to target civilian areas. The Kremlin's relentless assault coupled with Trump's fluctuating approach on military support suggests a complex scenario, where both Ukrainian morale and safety remain precarious.
As the conflict drags on, civilians like journalist Dasha Volk describe the anguish of living under constant threat, emphasizing the need for sustainable military support to ensure Ukraine’s safety. With growing fears regarding Russia’s production capabilities, experts warn it’s crucial for the U.S. to remain steadfast in its commitment to Ukraine to deter further threats.
