'Vladimir, STOP!' ​Trump Urges Putin to Halt Kyiv Strikes

On 24 April 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a rare and emphatic public rebuke of Russian President Vladimir Putin following a devastating missile and drone assault on Kyiv, Ukraine. The attack resulted in at least 12 fatalities and approximately 90 injuries, marking one of the deadliest strikes on the Ukrainian capital in recent months.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, President Trump expressed his disapproval: "I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying. Let's get the Peace Deal DONE!" ​

This direct appeal to President Putin comes amidst ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to broker a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine. The proposed deal includes contentious provisions such as U.S. recognition of Crimea as Russian territory and the exclusion of Ukraine from NATO membership. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly rejected these terms, emphasising Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.​

The Kremlin has not officially responded to President Trump's remarks. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated Russia's openness to negotiations, stating that Moscow is "ready to reach a deal" on Ukraine. 

The recent escalation in hostilities, including the attack on Kyiv, has intensified international concerns and underscored the urgency of diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. President Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is scheduled to visit Moscow for the fourth time to engage in discussions aimed at advancing the peace process.

Image: The White House/Flickr

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