US President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Vladimir Putin, claiming the Russian leader is “playing with fire” following a surge of missile and drone attacks across Ukraine. Trump, speaking on his Truth Social platform, declared that Russia has avoided “really bad things” thanks to his prior restraint. His remarks follow what Ukraine described as one of the most devastating attacks on civilian areas since the war began over three years ago.
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During his campaign, Trump pledged to end the conflict within 24 hours of returning to office, repeatedly insisting the invasion would not have occurred had he still been president. However, with no ceasefire in sight and mounting pressure on his foreign policy stance, Trump’s rhetoric has shifted. He recently threatened severe sanctions against Russia, reflecting a sharper tone amid rising criticism at home and abroad. Observers suggest Trump is feeling compelled to appear tougher on Putin, despite previous praise for the Russian leader.
His critics were quick to respond. Republican Representative Adam Kinzinger mocked Trump’s assertion of strength, while Professor Phillips O’Brien of the University of St Andrews suggested Trump’s behaviour aligns with how a “Russian agent of influence” might act. Ukrainian voices, such as Olena Halushka of the International Centre for Ukrainian Victory, expressed scepticism and impatience, demanding concrete consequences for Russia’s escalating aggression.
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Despite Trump’s more assertive tone, the Kremlin appeared unfazed, dismissing the remarks as emotional and contradictory. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for genuine international pressure, demanding tougher sanctions and an end to oil trade with Russia. He accused the global community of prioritising diplomacy over action in the face of Putin’s apparent disregard for peace. As the violence intensifies, questions remain over whether Trump’s threats will lead to decisive action or more political posturing.
