US: ‘American soldiers will not go to Ukraine’; White House explains why Trump imposed sanctions on India
Russia-Ukraine War Update:
The United States has clarified its position on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, stating firmly that American troops will not be deployed on Ukrainian soil. Instead, Washington is exploring other forms of assistance to Kyiv while simultaneously exerting diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia. A significant part of this strategy includes President Donald Trump’s decision to impose sanctions on India — a move the White House claims is intended to indirectly influence Moscow.
No US Troops on Ukrainian Soil
White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt emphasized on Tuesday that President Trump has made his stance absolutely clear: “American soldiers will not be sent directly to Ukraine.” Instead, the administration is actively examining alternative ways to strengthen Ukraine’s defense, which may include air support and broader security guarantees.
Levitt reiterated that while boots on the ground are ruled out, the US commitment to supporting Ukraine remains strong. “The President has clearly said that American soldiers will not set foot on Ukrainian territory. However, America will collaborate closely with European allies to provide security options that can pave the way for lasting peace,” she explained.
Air Support and Security Guarantees
When asked about the possibility of air support as part of these guarantees, Levitt clarified that “all military options remain under consideration, except for direct ground deployment.” According to her, President Trump believes that ensuring Ukraine’s security through NATO and allied cooperation is the best approach, without directly involving US ground forces.
Trump’s Formula: NATO to Fund Weapons
Addressing concerns over American taxpayers’ money being used for the war, Levitt revealed that President Trump has proposed a new strategy. Rather than direct US funding, NATO allies will be encouraged to purchase American-made weapons and supply them to Ukraine. “The President does not want to burden US taxpayers. That is why NATO partners will purchase American weapons — which are the best in the world — and deliver them to Ukraine. This ensures Ukraine’s needs are met without placing extra financial strain on Americans,” she said.
Diplomatic Push: Trump, Putin, and Zelensky Talks
The White House also highlighted President Trump’s ongoing diplomatic efforts. Levitt confirmed that Trump recently held a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and has spoken to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky multiple times over the phone. These engagements, she claimed, have reopened channels of dialogue between Russia and Ukraine after years of deadlock.
Trump believes peace is only possible if both sides are willing to make sacrifices. “The President always says that a fair agreement leaves both parties somewhat dissatisfied. That is how permanent solutions are reached,” Levitt explained.
Sanctions on India: A Pressure Tactic on Russia
In a surprising development, the White House confirmed that Trump has imposed new tariffs on India as part of his wider strategy to end the war. Levitt explained that the President has increased duties by an additional 25%, raising the total tariff on Indian imports to 50%. The rationale behind this move is to put “secondary pressure” on Russia, since India remains one of Moscow’s major trading partners. By tightening India’s economic flexibility, Washington hopes to push Russia toward the negotiation table.
‘If Trump Had Been in Power Earlier, War Would Not Have Happened’
Levitt further underlined President Trump’s belief that the Russia-Ukraine war could have been avoided altogether if he had remained in office earlier. She added that even Putin himself has privately acknowledged this possibility. The White House stressed that Trump continues to engage with European leaders and NATO to accelerate peace talks and ensure stability in the region.
Past Peace Efforts: India-Pakistan Example
Finally, Levitt drew parallels with Trump’s earlier diplomatic successes. She reminded the press that during his previous term, Trump had played a role in defusing tensions between India and Pakistan, which helped prevent a potential nuclear escalation. “Just as President Trump worked to maintain peace in South Asia, he is now determined to bring an end to the Russia-Ukraine conflict,” she stated.
