Trump’s Advisers Propose Plan to Halt US Military Aid to Ukraine Unless Peace Talks Commence

A plan crafted by two key advisers to former President Donald Trump aims to end Russia’s war in Ukraine, contingent on Trump’s potential future presidency. The proposal, presented by retired Lt Gen Keith Kellogg and Fred Fleitz, suggests the United States would cease military aid to Ukraine unless it engages in peace talks with Russia. Simultaneously, the plan would warn Moscow of increased U.S. support for Ukraine if it refuses to negotiate.

The strategy involves a ceasefire based on current battle lines during the peace talks. Kellogg and Fleitz, who served as chiefs of staff in Trump’s national security council, noted that Trump reacted favorably to their proposal though not necessarily agreeing entirely. Trump’s spokesperson Steven Cheung emphasized that only official statements by Trump or authorized campaign members should be considered definitive.

This plan represents the most detailed approach from Trump’s associates to settle the conflict should he succeed in the upcoming presidential elections. However, the proposal is likely to encounter resistance from European allies and within Trump’s Republican party.

The Kremlin, represented by spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, stated that any peace plan would need to account for the current on-ground realities, reiterating President Vladimir Putin’s openness to negotiations, which Putin had previously stated.

Update on Ammunition Supply to Ukrainian Troops in Donetsk

Ukrainian troops in the Donetsk region, who had been contending with a severe shortage of ammunition, have reported receiving new supplies of Western-supplied 155 mm shells. This influx addresses what was referred to as “shell hunger,” significantly impacting their ability to hold ground against Russian forces. The replenished supplies follow a recent approval by the U.S. Congress of a $61 billion aid package.

Drone Attacks in Belgorod Region

The Belgorod region in Russia witnessed multiple drone attacks by Ukraine, resulting in the death of an elderly woman, injuries to four individuals, and damage to numerous buildings. The Russian defense ministry reported the destruction of 29 Ukrainian-launched drones over the region. Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov detailed the incidents on the Telegram messaging app.

Putin’s Peace Proposals

Yuri Ushakov, an aide to President Vladimir Putin, stated that Russia’s peace proposals could potentially de-escalate the conflict swiftly if Ukrainian troops withdrew from the occupied regions.

Casualties and Military Movements

Ukraine’s General Staff reported additional Russian casualties and the deployment of Russian ships in the Sea of Azov, heightening concerns over potential threats.

U.S. and EU Actions

The U.S. is expected to announce additional military aid to Ukraine, while the EU has imposed new sanctions on Chinese companies and agreed to use profits from frozen Russian assets for Ukrainian aid.

Noteworthy Replacements and Attacks

President Volodymyr Zelensky has replaced a key military commander following internal criticisms, and Ukrainian forces continue to target Russian oil facilities, while also sustaining casualties from recent Russian missile attacks.