Trump came away from his July 3 call with Vladimir Putin deeply frustrated over Moscow’s lack of ceasefire intent, and later that night Russia unleashed its largest ever drone-and-missile strike on Kyiv, causing civilian casualties and damage to critical infrastructure.
At a Glance
- Trump said Putin showed “no sign” of wanting to halt the war after their July 3 call.
- Russia launched 539 drones plus 11 missiles at Kyiv—the biggest single attack since 2022.
- The strike killed one person, injured at least 23, and damaged schools, apartments and rail lines.
- The U.S. has paused shipments of Patriot, Sparrow and Stinger air‑defense systems to Ukraine.
- Trump plans to speak with President Zelenskyy on July 4 about resuming air‑defense support.
A Show Of Resolve And Rebuff
President Trump returned from Iowa on July 4 and declared frustration after his July 3 phone call with Putin, stating, “I don’t think he’s looking to stop.” Kremlin insiders confirmed Putin vowed to maintain his war objectives, despite diplomatic outreach. The hour-long conversation failed to yield any ceasefire progress or meaningful compromise, according to comprehensive Washington Post reporting.
Kyiv Under Fire Amid Aid Pause
Hours after the Trump–Putin call, Ukraine’s military reported Russia unleashed its largest single aerial assault of the war by launching 539 drones and 11 missiles at Kyiv. Civilian casualties included one fatality and over 23 injuries, while extensive damage hit schools, apartment blocks and rail infrastructure. Ukraine intercepted 478 of the airborne threats, according to TIME, mitigating what officials warned could have been far more devastating.
Watch a report: Russia pounds Kyiv with largest drone attack
What’s Next
Trump is slated to speak with Zelenskyy on July 4 to discuss lifting the suspension of Patriot, Sparrow and Stinger air‑defense shipments—a move analysts say is critical for Ukraine’s resilience as the military confronts “a weakened air‑defense posture.” European allies, led by Germany, are reportedly exploring ways to fill the crucial supply gap and reinforce Ukraine’s protective systems amid intensifying diplomatic and military stakes.
