Load of missiles in Kiev before the handover between Joe Biden and Donald Trump at the White House. The Pentagon will send 500 interceptor missiles to Ukraine for the Nasams and Patriot medium-range air defense systems, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reports, citing a source from the outgoing administration. According to the American financial newspaper, the United States wants to send weapons to Zelensky before President-elect Trump takes office, in the expectation that the Republican will definitely change his line.
The weapons are expected to arrive soon, to meet the need to strengthen Ukraine’s air defense by the end of the year. Trump’s inauguration will be official on January 20.
Meanwhile, Moscow is ready to listen to Trump’s proposals to end the conflict in Ukraine, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Riabkov assured, warning however that there is no “easy solution”, considering the continued US assistance to Kiev and the suspicions that the tycoon’s promises are nothing more than electoral rhetoric. “If there is any sign from the United States that it has ideas about how to move towards a solution, without continuing to pump the regime in Kiev with all kinds of assistance to achieve the strategic defeat of Moscow, then we will certainly do our best to analyze it and give an answer”, guaranteed Riabkov, recalling that communications with the United States, despite the frosty state of relations, are far from closed. “We periodically exchange some signals through closed channels with different degrees of intensity depending on the need, but everything is working properly, we cannot say that the communication lines have been cut,” he explained.
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**Interview with Dr. Emily Carter, Defense Analyst at the Global Security Institute**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. The recent reports indicate that the Pentagon is moving forward with sending 500 interceptor missiles to Ukraine amid the political transition in the U.S. What is the significance of this action?
**Dr. Carter:** It’s a notable shift, especially considering the political climate. The timing is crucial as it shows a commitment from the outgoing Biden administration to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities before the inauguration of President-elect Trump. This delivery of missiles for the Nasams and Patriot systems is aimed at addressing urgent defense needs, particularly as Ukraine faces ongoing threats.
**Editor:** How might this move affect U.S.-Ukraine relations moving forward, especially with Trump’s upcoming presidency?
**Dr. Carter:** That’s a key question. The Biden administration’s support for Ukraine has been substantial, but Trump has signaled a potential shift in policy. By providing these missiles before he takes office, the current administration may be trying to solidify support for Ukraine, ensuring that the incoming administration cannot reverse significant aid efforts without facing backlash.
**Editor:** What are the implications for Ukraine’s military readiness with these new systems in place?
**Dr. Carter:** Receiving these interceptor missiles will significantly enhance Ukraine’s aerial defense. The current situation necessitates a robust defense against missile attacks, particularly as winter approaches. Strengthened air defenses can provide Ukraine with the confidence and security needed to sustain its military operations in what has been a very challenging conflict.
**Editor:** Lastly, do you foresee any immediate repercussions for U.S. foreign policy once Trump assumes office?
**Dr. Carter:** There could be a period of adjustment. Trump’s history of prioritizing ’America First’ could lead to a reassessment of international commitments. However, should he choose to scale back support for Ukraine, it would not only impact the Ukrainian military but also send ripples through American alliances in Europe. The response from NATO partners and global allies will be closely monitored in that scenario.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for your insights on this complex situation. It will be interesting to see how these developments unfold in the coming weeks.
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. It’s certainly a pivotal moment for both Ukraine and U.S. foreign policy.
