Ukraine: The Latest Ukraine ‘offers Trump $100bn arms deal’ for security guarantees & leaders debate venues for Putin-Zelensky talks
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Aug 19, 2025 James Kilner, a former Russia correspondent for The Telegraph, shares insights on Ukraine’s bold offer of a $100bn arms deal to Donald Trump for security guarantees. The conversation dives into the complexities of military support amidst ongoing diplomatic negotiations, highlighting the stymied Russian advancements and the resilience of Ukrainian forces. Kilner also discusses the implications of European leaders' cautious backing and the impact of regional dynamics, including the Azerbaijan conflict on the situation in Ukraine.
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Summit Left Major Gaps Over Territory
- European leaders pushed for a ceasefire and security guarantees but remain divided on territory concessions to Russia.
- The outcome left large gaps, with the US appearing more open to territory-linked deals than some Europeans.
Europe Offered Massive Arms Purchase
- Europeans reportedly offered a $100bn arms purchase from the US financed by Europe to secure US guarantees.
- Practical US guarantees could range from patrols and intelligence to logistics rather than NATO Article 5-style commitments.
What US Security Guarantees Might Look Like
- Frank Gardner's breakdown narrowed likely US roles to four: ground troops, air/sea patrols, intelligence, and logistics.
- The most plausible US contributions are intelligence and logistics, not boots on the ground.