U.S. Rules Out Ground Troops in Ukraine, Trump Backs Air Support as Part of Security Deal

The United States has ruled out deploying troops to Ukraine, but President Donald Trump mentioned on August 19 that air support might be provided. This potential aid is part of a strategy to end Russia's conflict in Ukraine. Trump assured Ukraine of a security guarantee to help conclude the ongoing war.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that US air support is "an option and a possibility," though she did not elaborate further. She emphasized that while American ground forces will not be deployed, other security measures could be coordinated with European allies.

US Air Support as a Strategic Option

In an interview with Fox News' "Fox & Friends," Trump stated, "When it comes to security, (Europeans) are willing to put people on the ground. We're willing to help them with things, especially, probably ... by air." He described his approach as relying more on instinct than a formal process.

Meanwhile, Russia intensified its military actions against Ukraine, launching its largest air assault in over a month. According to the Ukrainian air force, 270 drones and 10 missiles were fired. The strikes led to significant fires at energy facilities in Poltava, where Ukraine's sole oil refinery is located.

Impact of Russian Strikes

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed concern over Moscow's continued aggression despite peace efforts in Washington, DC. On X, he wrote about the contrast between diplomatic efforts and Russia's destructive actions.

A Reuters report quoted an individual describing the devastation: "An ordinary apartment block … families with small children, a children's playground, a residential compound." These attacks highlight the ongoing challenges faced by civilians amidst the conflict.

Trump's potential plan for air support aims to bolster Ukraine's defense without direct military involvement. This approach seeks to balance providing assistance while avoiding escalation through ground troop deployment.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military developments. The international community watches closely as both sides navigate this complex geopolitical landscape.