- Trump publicly criticized Putin for the war in Ukraine, urging an end to the violence while blaming Zelensky for prolonging the conflict by refusing territorial concessions.
- The U.S. warned it may withdraw from peace talks unless both Russia and Ukraine commit to a deal, with Vice President Vance pushing for frozen frontlines.
- European leaders, including Macron, rejected Trump’s stance, arguing Putin alone is responsible and that concessions should not be made under pressure.
- Trump claimed both sides want peace but remain at an impasse, as diplomacy stalls and casualties rise with no resolution in sight.
- The White House signaled it may prioritize U.S. interests by stepping back, acknowledging the war's unsustainable toll on resources and stability.
President Donald Trump issued a rare public rebuke of Russian leader Vladimir Putin this week, demanding an end to the bloodshed in Ukraine while blaming Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for prolonging the war. The escalating diplomatic tension comes as the U.S. considers withdrawing from stalled peace negotiations, with Vice President JD Vance warning that Washington may abandon mediation efforts unless both sides commit to a deal.
On Thursday, Trump took to Truth Social following a deadly Russian missile attack on Kyiv, which killed at least 10 people and injured 90. "I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying," Trump wrote. "Lets get the peace deal DONE!"
A frustrated push for peace
The Trump administration has repeatedly pressed for a ceasefire agreement, claiming both Russia and Ukraine must compromise. But Zelensky has refused to concede occupied territories, including Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014. Trump criticized this stance, arguing Ukraine’s inflexibility is extending the conflict.
U.S. issues ultimatum
Vice President Vance reinforced Trump’s position, signaling the White House’s dwindling patience. "We've issued a very explicit proposal to both the Russians and Ukrainians, and it's time for them to either say yes or for the U.S. to walk away from this process. We've engaged in an extraordinary amount of diplomacy, of on-the-ground work," he said.
“It’s now time, I think, to take, if not the final step, one of the final steps, which is, at a broad level, the party saying we’re going to stop the killing, we’re going to freeze the territorial lines at some level close to where they are today,” Vance added. “Now, of course, that means the Ukrainians and the Russians are both going to have to give up some of the territory they currently own.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the sentiment, warning that President Trump is nearing "a point where he’s going to say, well, we’re done." Meanwhile, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused Western leaders of exacerbating tensions, asserting that NATO expansion provoked Russia.
European leaders push back
While Trump directs frustration at Zelensky, European allies, including France’s Emmanuel Macron, argue Putin bears sole responsibility. "The Americans’ anger should focus on just one person: President Putin," Macron said, adding, "There is only one answer we are waiting for: Does President Putin agree to an unconditional ceasefire?” French officials dismissed Trump’s criticism of Ukraine, emphasizing that territorial concessions should not be negotiated under duress.
Despite the friction, Trump insists both sides are eager to end hostilities. "We are thinking that, very strongly, that they both want peace," he told reporters, adding, "But they have to get to the table. We’re waiting a long time.” However, with diplomacy stalled and casualties mounting, the conflict’s resolution remains uncertain.
As the White House weighs its next move, Trump’s rare criticism of Putin underscores the war’s unsustainable toll. With billions in U.S. aid drained and no clear victory in sight, the administration argues America must prioritize its interests, even if it means letting Ukraine and Russia settle their dispute alone.
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