In an interview, General Roman Polko warned Europe that Trump’s upcoming meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will review his earlier conversation with Vladimir Putin, suggesting the U.S. president may still be misled.
Trump‑Zelensky Meeting Set for October 17
President Trump will meet President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday, 17 October, at the White House. According to Trump, one agenda item will be to discuss the earlier conversation he had with Russian President Vladimir Putin about the war in Ukraine.
Polko Criticizes “Pseudo‑Negotiations” with Russia
General Roman Polko, a former GROM commander, argues that the so‑called negotiations between the U.S. and Russia have removed Russia from international isolation and weakened Ukrainian support. He warns that Trump’s claim of being able to negotiate peace with Putin, while setting red lines and threatening sanctions, is misleading and undermines genuine support for Ukraine.
U.S. Tomahawk Missiles Not Likely to Reach Ukraine
Polko stated that the United States will not provide Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine, questioning the logic of Trump’s proposal to supply them. He emphasizes that the U.S. has a reputation for threatening then not following through, which puts him in a weak position in front of Putin.
Ukraine’s Production Capabilities and Western Aid Rationale
Polko notes that Ukraine can produce weapons that effectively strike Russian targets but remains unable to sustain the war alone. He cites the population and armament advantage held by Russia and mentions that Western artillery ammunition provision is less than what North Korea offers Russia. The general urges Europe and the United States to strengthen support, remove restrictions, and shift production toward arms that can compete with the Russian-driven arms race.
Putin’s Planned Meeting with Trump in Hungary
Trump announced his intention to meet Vladimir Putin in Budapest, Hungary. Polko expressed skepticism, stating that the meeting’s location—Hungary, which he views as a Trojan horse for Putin—does not bode well for Europe. He urges that security issues be addressed collectively and that Western policy not tolerate a Putin agenda.
Polko’s Assessment of the War’s End and U.S. Influence
Polko does not expect a breakthrough in the Ukraine war and hopes for increased aid and clearer vision from Trump. He stresses that the U.S. Congress should push for different approaches, as the Kremlin’s survival depends on the ongoing conflict. If the war ends, so will Putin’s influence, according to him.
