Trump: Putin Has ‘Gone Absolutely Crazy’ as Ukraine Bombarded Again/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning EDition/ President Trump criticized Vladimir Putin for escalating attacks on Ukraine, calling him “absolutely crazy.” The remarks follow Russia’s largest aerial assault on Kyiv since the 2022 invasion. Trump threatened further sanctions but has yet to take formal action.
Trump Slams Putin Over Ukraine Attacks: Quick Looks
- Blistering Critique: Trump denounces Putin as “crazy” amid new wave of Russian missile and drone strikes.
- Deadly Assault: At least 12 killed in what Ukraine calls the worst bombardment since 2022.
- Ceasefire Pressure: Trump calls for immediate peace talks, says continued war will “lead to the downfall of Russia.”
- Zelenskyy Criticism: Trump also scolds Ukrainian leader for rhetoric he says “causes problems.”
- Sanctions in Limbo: Trump has floated new penalties on Russia but hasn’t enacted them.
Deep Look: Trump Calls Out Putin as Ukraine Crisis Deepens
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump escalated his public rhetoric against Russian President Vladimir Putin Sunday night, labeling him “absolutely CRAZY” after three consecutive nights of Russian missile and drone strikes across Ukraine — including a massive barrage on Kyiv that killed at least 12 people and injured dozens.
“Something has happened to him,” Trump said on Truth Social, “he’s needlessly killing a lot of people.” He added that Russia’s full-scale aerial assault on Ukrainian cities was taking place “for no reason whatsoever.”
The unusually sharp rebuke marked a shift in tone from Trump, who has long touted a working relationship with Putin and has frequently questioned Western support for Ukraine. But the ferocity of the latest strikes — reportedly the largest since Russia’s 2022 invasion — prompted Trump to voice his strongest condemnation yet.
“Leads to the Downfall of Russia”
“If Putin thinks he can conquer all of Ukraine, it will only lead to the downfall of Russia!” Trump warned, while also taking a swipe at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, saying his tone was “causing problems” and should “stop.”
Trump’s frustration with the drawn-out war, now entering its third year, has been building. On the campaign trail, he has repeatedly promised to end the war “within 24 hours” of retaking office. But recent developments suggest that neither Russia nor Ukraine are ready to negotiate in earnest.
Recent Talks and Stalled Diplomacy
Last week, Trump held a phone call with Putin, after which he announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to “immediate” ceasefire negotiations. But while that raised hopes of a breakthrough, the Kremlin later denied that any direct talks had been scheduled.
Earlier this month, Turkish officials hosted the first face-to-face dialogue between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators since early 2022. That, too, ended without a major breakthrough.
EU Acts, Trump Hesitates
In response to the latest escalation, the European Union imposed new sanctions on Russia, targeting banks and military suppliers. Trump, for his part, has threatened additional sanctions and tariffs on Moscow but has so far not followed through with executive orders or legislative proposals.
Critics have noted the gap between Trump’s rhetoric and actions. “Words are cheap,” one European diplomat said anonymously. “The world is waiting for America to lead, not just post.”
Allies, Critics Respond
Trump’s comments sparked reactions across Washington and beyond.
Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) applauded the president’s statement but urged him to “put his money where his mouth is” by advancing sanctions legislation.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials welcomed the call for peace but bristled at Trump’s criticism of Zelenskyy. “Ukraine is fighting for survival,” said one official in Kyiv.
“We will continue speaking truthfully about Russia’s war crimes, no matter who doesn’t like it.”
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