August 19, 2025

President Donald Trump on Tuesday pledged that American troops would not be on the ground in Ukraine — but provided little other insight into the scale of U.S. security guarantees as he pushes to end Russia’s war on its neighbor.

“You have my assurance, and I’m president,” Trump said on “Fox & Friends,” when asked what assurances he has that there won’t be American boots in the country to defend against another Russian incursion.

There is room for U.S. military involvement that doesn’t require American troops in Ukraine, including air or drone support or noncombat roles. In fact, a senior administration official, granted anonymity to discuss private conversations, told POLITICO on Monday that there isn’t a red line on a U.S. role, adding that the U.S. could participate in a peacekeeping force if it is the last piece required for a deal.

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