U.S. President Donald Trump expressed reservations about providing long-range Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine during a White House meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky, even as he simultaneously announced plans for an upcoming summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the protracted conflict.
Trump cautioned that delivering the advanced weaponry could lead to a “major escalation.” He added that “many bad things could happen” if such a transfer occurred.
Zelensky, whose nation has been at war with Russia for over three years, had explicitly sought the Tomahawk missiles from the United States. He offered Ukrainian-made drones in exchange for the long-range weapons.
The Ukrainian leader stated he believes the war can conclude with crucial U.S. assistance. He also congratulated Trump for his recent role in brokering a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
This diplomatic achievement in the Middle East preceded the White House confirming Trump and Putin had agreed to meet soon in Hungary. Advisors from both nations are set to begin preparatory talks next week for the summit.
Trump’s current stance on the Tomahawk missiles appeared to shift after a recent phone call with Putin. Following that discussion, Trump reportedly said, “we also have to use them,” which he indicated left him “not sure what to do” regarding the potential transfer.
The formal working lunch between Trump and Zelensky took place at the White House on October 17, 2025. Discussions centered on potential pathways to peace in Ukraine.