Synopsis
On April 24, 2023, President Trump expressed his anger at Russian airstrikes on Kyiv, calling on Putin to halt the attacks. This represents a notable shift in Trump's rhetoric towards Russia amidst ongoing conflict.Key Takeaways
- Trump condemns Russian strikes on Kyiv.
- Nine casualties reported from the airstrike.
- Calls for a peace deal and ceasefire.
- Criticism of Zelenskyy's stance on Crimea.
- Stalemate in peace negotiations continues.
Washington, April 24 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump expressed his outrage on Thursday regarding the recent Russian airstrikes on Kyiv, directing a clear message to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin to "STOP". This comment signifies a notable shift in Trump's previously more lenient tone towards the Russian leader.
In the overnight airstrike, nine individuals lost their lives, while over 100 others were affected, marking it as the most significant attack on the Ukrainian capital this year.
"I am not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv," President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social. "Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the Peace Deal DONE!"
Up until now, Trump has avoided criticizing Putin, instead emphasizing their friendship. He has, however, been more vocal in his criticism of Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, whom he chastised on Wednesday for rejecting Russia's authority over Crimea, annexed in 2014.
Efforts by President Trump to mediate an end to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict have recently stalled. While Ukraine has agreed to a US peace proposal for a comprehensive ceasefire, Russia continues its attacks.
In response, Zelenskyy has called for an immediate ceasefire before any further negotiations.
"It has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a full ceasefire and a halt to strikes," he noted on X on Thursday.
"This was a proposal from the United States. And it has been 44 days of Russia continuing to kill our people and evading tough pressure and accountability for its actions. It is extremely important that everyone around the world sees and understands what is really happening. Nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic ones. And about 150 attack drones."
Under President Joe Biden, the US has supported Ukraine, enabling it to resist the Russian offensive for three years.
Following his inauguration, Trump suggested that US support wouldn’t be indefinite, unlike Biden's assurances, and expressed interest in Ukraine's rare earth resources in exchange for assistance while also urging both nations to reach a resolution.
Though he secured Zelenskyy's endorsement of his ceasefire initiative, progress with Putin has been limited, leading to visible frustration in Thursday’s Truth Social message.
