by President Donald Trump issued strong criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday, expressing clear dissatisfaction with Putin’s actions amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Trump condemned Russia’s recent missile attacks and weighed in on U.S. policy and Ukrainian leadership.
What Happened
President Trump spoke candidly from Morristown, New Jersey, about Russia’s escalating military aggression in Ukraine. He said he was “not happy” with Putin’s decisions after a deadly wave of missile and drone strikes that targeted Kyiv and other cities.
Overnight, Russia launched one of its largest missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, killing at least a dozen civilians and injuring many more.
Key Details
- Trump stated, “He’s killing a lot of people… sending rockets into cities,” emphasizing his disappointment with Putin’s recent behavior.
- He acknowledged a long personal history with Putin but expressed surprise at the current violence.
- Trump hinted that new U.S. sanctions against Russia could be considered.
- Later Sunday, on Truth Social, Trump expanded his criticism, calling Putin “absolutely CRAZY” and accusing him of “needlessly killing a lot of people.”
- Trump also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, saying Zelensky’s rhetoric “causes problems” and should stop.
- Zelensky reported nearly 300 attack drones and 70 missiles launched by Russia overnight, striking Kyiv and 11 other regions, with tragic civilian casualties including children.
- Zelensky accused Moscow of showing no real interest in peace and warned that global silence encourages Putin’s aggression.
Reactions and Statements
- Trump called the war “Zelenskyy’s, Putin’s, and Biden’s War,” distancing himself from responsibility and highlighting his attempts to mediate.
- Zelensky condemned the attacks on civilian areas and criticized the global community’s muted response.
- The contrast between Trump’s harsh words toward Putin and his criticism of Zelensky highlights ongoing tensions between the former U.S. president’s stance and current U.S. policy.
Investigation or What’s Next
- Trump held separate phone calls with both Putin and Zelensky on Monday, advocating for a 30-day ceasefire.
- Zelensky appeared open to the ceasefire, but Putin declined the proposal.
- The conflict continues with no immediate end in sight as diplomatic efforts struggle amid continued violence.
FAQs
Q: What triggered Trump’s sharp criticism of Putin?
A: The large-scale missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities, resulting in significant civilian casualties.
Q: How did Zelensky respond to the attacks?
A: He condemned the strikes as deliberate attacks on civilian areas and urged the international community not to remain silent.
Q: Has Trump proposed any solutions to the conflict?
A: Trump called for a 30-day ceasefire and engaged in talks with both Putin and Zelensky.
Q: What is the U.S. stance on new sanctions against Russia?
A: Trump indicated that new sanctions might be possible but gave no definitive plans.
Q: How are relations between Trump and Zelensky described?
A: Trump has criticized Zelensky’s rhetoric and leadership, while expressing a more complicated stance on Putin.
Summary / Final Takeaway
President Trump’s unusually direct criticism of Vladimir Putin marks a significant moment amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. While condemning Russia’s deadly attacks, Trump also voiced frustration with Ukrainian President Zelensky’s communication style.
Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire continue, but with Putin rejecting proposals, the conflict remains unresolved. The evolving U.S. approach to Russia and Ukraine continues to shape the geopolitical landscape in 2025.
