A deadly Russian assault on Ukraine’s capital has drawn rare criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump who called on President Vladimir Putin to halt the violence and pursue peace talks. Drone and missile strikes in Kyiv left at least 12 civilians dead and caused widespread destruction across the city.
Attack prompted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to cut short his official visit to South Africa and return to Ukraine. Reacting strongly to the assault, Trump expressed his disapproval on Truth Social, writing that he was “deeply displeased” with the attack and saw “no justification for such aggression.”
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In a press briefing at the White House, Trump doubled down on his message, stating that both Moscow and Kyiv desire peace and should immediately return to the negotiating table. He warned that he has his own timeline for resolving the conflict implying a more proactive stance if he returns to office.
Just hours before his remarks criticizing Putin, Trump had taken aim at President Zelensky, questioning his handling of the war. However, his public rebuke of the Kremlin leader marked a notable shift in tone, given Trump’s often ambiguous stance on Russia in the past.
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As Russia intensifies its campaign and Ukraine scrambles to respond international pressure mounts for both sides to resume dialogue. Trump’s latest comments signal his attempt to position himself as a peacemaker amid escalating global tensions.
