Trump's Shift on Putin, Ukraine Aid, and Canada's Wildfires

Good morning. This report covers several key developments, including a shift in Donald Trump's approach to Vladimir Putin and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Also included are updates on Canada's wildfires and early ticket pricing for the upcoming World Cup.

soldiers accused in a Quebec militia plot having limited access to army bases and equipment; Poilievre stating that compromise will be necessary for major infrastructure projects; and Israeli strikes in Gaza resulting in casualties, with UN agencies warning of a fuel crisis.

Donald Trump appears to have changed his view of Vladimir Putin. Despite previous pleasant conversations, Trump now believes Putin is not genuinely interested in ending the war in Ukraine. Trump has decided to move away from praising Putin and instead adopt a more assertive stance.

In a press conference with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump announced a deal to provide more U.S.-made weapons to Ukraine, with NATO members covering the costs. While details are limited, Trump stated the U.S. would send billions of dollars worth of advanced equipment, including Patriot missile defense systems, for rapid deployment. A specific threat was issued to Moscow, with Trump indicating the U.S. would impose significant tariffs on Russia if a ceasefire wasn't reached within 50 days.

It's uncertain how committed Trump is to the September 2 deadline, considering past tariff reprieves. Russia's exports to the U.S. are relatively small, and a bill in the U.S. Senate proposes sanctions on countries buying oil from Moscow. Putin may not be swayed, as Russia has intensified attacks on Ukrainian cities, believing its advantage in the war is growing.

Trump's actions may be driven by frustration, but they also represent a victory for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky had previously proposed a similar solution for American weapons at a NATO summit. There is no information yet on Trump's plan for the US$1.25-billion aid package to Ukraine, which expires later this summer. Zelensky expressed his gratitude to Trump after their conversation.

Across Canada, there were nearly 450 air quality warnings yesterday due to over 560 wildfires burning in Western and Northern regions, with at least 140 of them out of control.

Alberta surpassing the entire United States in confirmed measles cases, France celebrating Bastille Day, a county in Maine expressing its fondness for Canadians, FIFA beginning sales of luxury packages for the World Cup in Toronto and Vancouver, and the conclusion of the seventh season of Love Island USA.