Trump’s mixed signals on Ukraine give Putin dangerous window Article by The Atlantic

Donald Trump’s approach to the war in Ukraine is beginning to alarm even some of his longtime observers. In a recent Atlantic analysis, the president is portrayed as offering just enough support to Kyiv to create headlines—while quietly giving Russia a strategic opening to intensify its assault.

The article centres on a striking contradiction: Trump’s decision to permit Germany to send U.S.-made Patriot missile systems to Ukraine, just as he simultaneously delays the imposition of further sanctions on Russia. The move was widely seen as a diplomatic gesture to President Zelenskyy, who has reportedly offered Washington access to advanced drone technology and critical mineral rights in return. But it’s the 50-day delay in new sanctions—effectively a free window for the Kremlin—that has sparked concern in diplomatic and defence circles.

While Ukraine struggles to fend off relentless waves of missiles and drones—over 700 in a single night this month—the Trump administration’s messaging remains inconsistent. Germany’s Brigadier General Christian Freuding has warned of an impending Russian operation that could see 2,000 drones launched in a single strike. Yet Washington, according to The Atlantic, is hesitating to apply the kind of pressure that could disrupt Putin’s war plans.

Equally troubling is the political inertia in Congress. A bipartisan bill designed to impose sweeping secondary sanctions on Russia—potentially targeting Chinese banks and firms that help Moscow skirt restrictions—has broad support in the Senate. But the bill has stalled, reportedly at Trump’s request, with Speaker Mike Johnson refusing to bring it to the House floor. The result is a widening credibility gap: Ukraine continues to receive rhetorical backing but lacks the full weight of U.S. power behind it.

Trump’s policy posture also appears to be laying the groundwork for a peace deal on Russia’s terms. Proposals floated within his camp would see Ukraine relinquish control over occupied territories, accept the annexation of Crimea, and abandon ambitions of joining NATO. For Ukrainians, it’s a bitter pill—one that seems to reward aggression and penalise resilience.

The broader picture painted by The Atlantic is not of a leader working to end a war, but one managing its optics. Aid is provided—but slowly. Sanctions are threatened—but postponed. Peace is discussed—but only on terms favourable to Moscow.

As Ukraine faces a long, punishing summer, the question remains: is Washington truly backing Kyiv—or simply buying time for Putin?

By Vugar Khalilov