Trump considers giving Tomahawk missiles to Ukraine during Zelensky White House visit

The war in Ukraine — and the weapons needed to fight it — are taking center stage in Washington today.

(CNN)- The war in Ukraine — and the weapons needed to fight it — are taking center stage in Washington today as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky meets with President Donald Trump at the White House.

Among the topics: the potential transfer of Tomahawk missiles, U.S.-made weapons powerful enough to strike Moscow.

“Exactly such pressure may work for peace,” Zelensky said through a translator, signaling that military strength could bring Russia to the negotiating table.

Trump confirmed he raised the idea with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a phone call yesterday.

“I did actually say, ‘Would you mind if I gave a couple of thousand Tomahawks to your opposition?’” Trump said. “He didn’t like the idea.”

Trump added that the comment was meant “lightheartedly,” but critics say it underscores the tension between Washington and Moscow.

The White House maintains that the conversation between Trump and Putin was productive.
“The president feels like great progress was made on this call,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. “They also agreed to have a high-level senior staff meeting convened as early as next week.”

Still, former Obama Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel argues the administration should apply stronger pressure on Russia.
“Increase sanctions. Increase toughness as it relates to the oil. Increase the weapons that go to Ukraine,” Emanuel said, warning against another meeting between Trump and Putin without results.

“If you make Russia vulnerable, they will negotiate at the table,” Emanuel added. “If you don’t, they’ll just keep kicking the can down the road with you. Putin’s playing, in my view, Trump right now.”

Trump says he plans to meet Putin in Hungary soon to discuss possible steps toward ending the war.