Paul Grod: Trump must lead on Ukraine

Statement by Paul Grod, President of the Ukrainian World Congress

Last night, Ukraine endured its most intense aerial assault since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion. Over 550 drones and missiles struck Kyiv and multiple regions, leaving civilians wounded, homes destroyed, and families sheltering underground. This is a stark reminder: every delay in delivering air defenses costs lives.

Critical U.S. military aid remains stalled. Ukraine urgently needs Patriot and NASAMS batteries, IRIS-T launchers, radar systems, and ammunition to defend its people. In June alone, Russia launched over 5,400 drones. The need is immediate and existential.

President Trump, this is your moment to lead. You have the influence to rally allies, restore weapons shipments, and shut down Russia’s war machine. Peace will come through strength – not appeasement.

Sanctions must also be expanded. Nations trading with Russia are enabling this war. Every barrel of oil, every ruble earned, fuels the missiles that strike Ukrainian cities.

As the world prepares for the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Rome on July 10–11, we must remember: there can be no rebuilding without survival. Ukraine must first be armed to rebuild.

This is your opportunity, President Trump. Lead with strength. Deliver peace. The world is watching.