Ultimatum 'too long'

UKRAINIANS welcomed President Donald Trump's pledge of more US-made weapons in their fight against Russia's invasion, even though it is unclear what exactly they will get and how quickly.

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The time frame for further arms deliveries that European countries have agreed to pay for is crucial.

Russia is making a summer push to break through along the 1,000-kilometre (620-mile) front line, and its drones and missiles are hammering Ukrainian cities more than at any time in the past three years.

Ukrainian officials have made no direct comment about Mr Trump's decision to allow Russia 50 days to reach a deal to end the war or face what he said would be “very severe” economic sanctions.

While some believe strict tariffs on Moscow could be a game changer, the postponement until September struck others as being too long.

For Russia, Mr Trump's delay of new sanctions is a reprieve.