Trump Criticizes Putin Over Deadly Kyiv Strikes Amid Ceasefire Talks

Former President Donald Trump publicly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for recent missile and drone strikes on Kyiv, urging him to 'STOP' and calling the attacks unnecessary and poorly timed. This marks a notable shift, as Trump has more frequently targeted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he blames for hindering peace negotiations by refusing to consider concessions on Crimea. Trump reiterated that Crimea was lost years ago and is not up for discussion, while also expressing frustration with both Russian and Ukrainian leaders for prolonging the conflict. Following the strikes, Trump emphasized the urgent need for a peace deal, citing the high human cost of the ongoing war. Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials suggested that Russia's latest assault was intended to pressure both Ukraine and the United States amid ongoing ceasefire proposals. Trump has faced challenges in brokering a resolution, despite his past claims that he could end the war swiftly if reelected.