Trump Criticizes Putin Over Attacks in Kyiv
WASHINGTON (AP) — On Thursday, President Donald Trump expressed unusual criticism toward Vladimir Putin, urging the Russian president to “STOP!” following a series of deadly missile attacks on Kyiv, Ukraine’s capital. He stated, “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying.” This message was shared on his Truth Social platform, where he also called for negotiations to finalize a peace agreement.
The Russian strikes resulted in an hours-long bombardment that killed at least 12 people and injured 90, marking the deadliest assault on the city since the previous July. Trump has shown increasing frustration over the lack of progress in U.S.-led efforts to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia.
On Wednesday, Trump openly criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, claiming that his refusal to concede the Russia-occupied Crimean Peninsula has prolonged the violence. Trump noted that Russia’s demand for control over Crimea and other territories seized since the invasion in February 2022 complicates efforts to reach a settlement.
During a lunch with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Trump was somewhat optimistic about the potential for an agreement, saying, “We are thinking that, very strongly, that they both want peace. But they have to get to the table. We’re waiting a long time.” Zelenskyy has reiterated his position that recognizing occupied territory as Russian is non-negotiable, indicating that despite a proposed ceasefire, Russian attacks have persisted.
Trump’s remarks are significant as he has consistently stated that Russia is more amenable to negotiations than Ukraine. He acknowledged that working with Zelenskyy has proven more difficult than anticipated. He has often suggested that Putin holds more leverage in the situation, while asserting that Zelenskyy lacks the same advantages.
As the situation evolves, the focus on diplomatic efforts continues. French President Emmanuel Macron criticized Putin for claiming to desire peace while conducting attacks on Ukraine. He emphasized the need for an unconditional ceasefire from the Russian side, stating, “There is only one answer we are waiting for: Does President Putin agree to an unconditional ceasefire?”
In summary, the discourse on the conflict and negotiations reflects a complex landscape. U.S. officials have proposed allowing Russia to maintain control over certain territories in exchange for peace, but concerns over Ukraine’s territorial integrity remain paramount. The ongoing discussions and forthcoming meetings among NATO leaders underscore the urgency of stability in the region.
