In an unexpected turn of events, former US President Donald Trump has urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the deadly missile and drone attacks on Ukraine’s capital city, Kyiv. In a candid message posted on Truth Social, Trump voiced his disapproval, stating, “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV… Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!”
This plea from Trump comes just a day after he expressed optimism about a potential peace deal between Russia and Ukraine, saying he believed Putin was “ready” for an agreement. However, the attack on Kyiv, which left at least eight people dead and seventy injured, has cast doubt over such a prospect.
The Russian assault on Kyiv marks one of the most damaging attacks on a major Ukrainian city since the invasion began more than three years ago. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cutting short his visit to South Africa to return home and address the crisis.
Trump’s criticism of the Russian strikes is all the more surprising given his recent comments suggesting that Ukraine’s leader, Zelenskyy, was the primary obstacle to a peace deal. He accused Zelenskyy of making “inflammatory statements” and stated, “We have to get a deal with Zelenskyy.” This criticism has been met with scorn from many, including Zelenskyy himself, who has emphasized the need for tough pressure and accountability on Russia to end the conflict.
In an attempt to clarify his position, Trump’s special envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, assured that peace talks in London had been “candid, constructive, and productive.” Nevertheless, the ongoing violence in Kyiv has underscored the challenges ahead in achieving a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine.
Trump’s plea to Putin may not be a traditional call for action from the former US President, but it is an unmistakable signal that even those with differing opinions on the matter are deeply troubled by the devastating consequences of this conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, one can only hope that all parties will heed Trump’s words and work together towards a peaceful resolution in Ukraine.
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