Ukraine should receive Tomahawk missiles if Putin rejects peace deal — pastor Mark Burns

Mark Burns, American preacher, spiritual diplomat, and evangelical minister, stated this on Espreso TV.

"Unfortunately, the Russians, and especially Vladimir Putin, seem to respond only to force. However, I am encouraged by new peace initiatives that are emerging. I am pleased that there is a fresh opportunity for all parties to come together at the negotiating table, whether in a two-way or three-way format. As your President Zelenskyy told me, a trilateral meeting must happen—one that includes the United States of America. The U.S. is showing strong willingness to participate in these negotiations. So I feel hopeful about returning to the negotiating table," Burns explained.

According to the pastor, if negotiations fail to produce results, Ukraine should be given long-range weapons, which could act as a deterrent and pressure Russia into accepting a ceasefire.

"However, Vladimir Putin seems to respond only to threats and displays of strength. If these latest peace talks don't work out, and if no genuine peace plan is put into action, then I firmly believe—and I have told the President and others this, and will continue to do so—that Ukraine must be given Tomahawk missiles. These weapons are needed as a deterrent to compel a ceasefire through strength. That is what I am working toward," he emphasized.

• On Friday, December 26, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that he has arranged a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, which will take place in the coming days. Media reports suggest the leaders will meet at Mar-a-Lago on December 28.