As Russia unleashes its most significant assault since the inception of the Ukraine conflict, Donald Trump publicly criticized Putin's actions while simultaneously addressing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's rhetoric.
Trump Labels Putin "Crazy" Amidst Largest Assault on Ukraine Yet
Trump Labels Putin "Crazy" Amidst Largest Assault on Ukraine Yet
In a striking statement, former President Donald Trump expressed discontent with Russian President Vladimir Putin after a massive aerial attack on Ukraine.
Trump's strong remarks came following a night of devastation in Ukraine, where at least 12 lives were claimed amid a barrage of 367 drones and missiles launched by Russia. This marked the highest aerial offensive since the onset of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Air raid sirens echoed across the country early Monday morning, underscoring the ongoing peril of the conflict. Kharkiv, one of the northeastern cities, reported casualties, including a child, due to the strikes.
Speaking from New Jersey, Trump stated, "I've known Putin for a long time, and while we've often gotten along, this recent wave of violence is unacceptable." He went further to declare, "Putin has absolutely gone crazy," underscoring his belief that Putin seeks total control over Ukraine which, Trump warned, could precipitate Russia's downfall.
On the other hand, Trump admonished Zelensky for his assertive language, suggesting a different approach could prove more beneficial for Ukraine. He asserted that Zelensky’s statements were fuel for further complications in the conflict.
Despite ongoing discussions for new sanctions against Russia from European allies, the U.S. has signaled it might shift to either facilitate peace talks or step away from negotiations if progress remains stagnant. Last week, Trump and Putin engaged in a two-hour dialogue over a ceasefire deal. Post-call, Trump remarked that he felt optimistic about initiating negotiations to end hostilities, while Zelensky has tentatively agreed to a brief ceasefire period.
Nevertheless, skepticism remains regarding Russia's commitment to genuine negotiations, as President Putin indicated only willingness to collaborate on a "memorandum" for potential future peace, a move criticized as mere stalling by Ukrainian and European leaders. Direct talks between Ukraine and Russia resumed for the first time since last year, yet tangible advancements toward peace remain elusive, with Russia currently occupying approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula.
Speaking from New Jersey, Trump stated, "I've known Putin for a long time, and while we've often gotten along, this recent wave of violence is unacceptable." He went further to declare, "Putin has absolutely gone crazy," underscoring his belief that Putin seeks total control over Ukraine which, Trump warned, could precipitate Russia's downfall.
On the other hand, Trump admonished Zelensky for his assertive language, suggesting a different approach could prove more beneficial for Ukraine. He asserted that Zelensky’s statements were fuel for further complications in the conflict.
Despite ongoing discussions for new sanctions against Russia from European allies, the U.S. has signaled it might shift to either facilitate peace talks or step away from negotiations if progress remains stagnant. Last week, Trump and Putin engaged in a two-hour dialogue over a ceasefire deal. Post-call, Trump remarked that he felt optimistic about initiating negotiations to end hostilities, while Zelensky has tentatively agreed to a brief ceasefire period.
Nevertheless, skepticism remains regarding Russia's commitment to genuine negotiations, as President Putin indicated only willingness to collaborate on a "memorandum" for potential future peace, a move criticized as mere stalling by Ukrainian and European leaders. Direct talks between Ukraine and Russia resumed for the first time since last year, yet tangible advancements toward peace remain elusive, with Russia currently occupying approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including the annexed Crimean Peninsula.
