During this week’s NATO summit in The Hague, Donald Trump sparked intense debate after a viral exchange with a Ukrainian journalist. The U.S. president joined 31 world leaders to discuss pressing issues, including the Israel-Iran conflict, tariffs, defense, and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Reporter Asks About Military Aid
BBC Ukraine correspondent Myroslava Petsa approached Trump during a press session. She shared that her husband is a soldier and asked whether the U.S. would supply Ukraine with Patriot missiles. She emphasized, “Russia has been pounding Ukraine really heavily right now.”
Before answering, Trump interrupted, asking if she lived in Ukraine. Petsa replied she lived in Warsaw with her children, at her husband’s request. Trump then confirmed, “Is your husband a soldier?” When she nodded, he said, “Wow, that’s rough stuff. That’s tough.”
Trump Responds to Aid Request
Trump acknowledged Ukraine’s desire for American we*pons. He promised, “We’re going to see if we can make some available.” However, he added that these mi**iles are hard to obtain because the U.S. also supplies them to Israel. “They’re very effective—100% effective,” he noted.
Context: U.S. Support for Israel
Since the October 7, 2023 Hamas a**acks on Israel, the U.S. has provided extensive military, diplomatic, and financial aid to Israel. The country faces accusations of w*r crimes, including b0*bing civilian areas and blocking humanitarian aid. The International Criminal Court has an arrest warrant out for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.
Trump has sided with Israel during recent conflicts, even authorizing str*kes on Iranian nuclear sites on June 22. Despite this, he called for a ceasefire between Israel and Iran soon after.
Closing Moments and Social Media Reaction
Toward the end of the exchange, Trump praised Petsa’s “very good question” and wished her luck. He added, “I can see it’s very upsetting to you. Say hello to your husband, okay? Thank you.”
The footage quickly spread online, sparking mixed reactions. Supporters praised Trump for showing respect and genuine interest. One wrote, “God bless President Trump for asking about her welfare and her soldier husband.”
Others criticized his tone. One user said, “Donald Trump lacks a soul. Listen to his conversation with the Ukraine reporter.” Another added, “Trump promised to end the Ukraine w*r in a day. That was a lie. Thanks to this reporter for doing her job.”