“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
President Donald Trump on Thursday issued rare public criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for an immediate halt to attacks on Kyiv after a deadly missile and drone assault killed at least nine and injured over 70.
“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying,” Trump posted on Truth Social. “Lets get the Peace Deal DONE!”
The attack was the deadliest on Ukraine’s capital since July.
Trump also blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for prolonging the conflict, saying he refused to surrender Crimea—occupied by Russia since 2014—as part of a deal.
“I thought it might be easier to deal with Zelenskyy,” Trump said Wednesday. “So far it’s been harder, but that’s OK.”
Trump is expected to meet Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre Thursday, while special envoy Steve Witkoff heads to Moscow for renewed peace talks.