Trump Slams Putin, Warns of Russia’s Downfall

US President Donald Trump has called Russian President Vladimir Putin “crazy” after Moscow launched a deadly barrage of drones against Ukraine, resulting in at least 13 deaths. Despite their previously good relationship, Trump expressed frustration with Putin’s actions, stating, “I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump warned that if Putin were to capture all of Ukraine, it would lead to Russia’s downfall.

Trump’s comments came after a phone call with Putin, where they discussed negotiations towards a ceasefire. However, Putin made no commitment to pause his invasion of Ukraine. Trump also mentioned that he was considering increasing sanctions on Moscow, saying, “I’ve known him a long time, always gotten along with him, but he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all.”

International Condemnation of Russia’s Actions

The Ukrainian government described the situation as one of “terror” after a second night of massive Russian air strikes, including on the capital Kyiv. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called for stronger international pressure on Russia, stating, “Without truly strong pressure on the Russian leadership, this brutality cannot be stopped.” The European Union’s top diplomat, Kaja Kallas, also condemned Russia’s actions, saying, “Last night’s attacks again show Russia bent on more suffering and the annihilation of Ukraine”.

Prisoner Exchange and Humanitarian Crisis

The conflict has led to a significant humanitarian crisis, with many civilians caught in the crossfire. In a positive development, Russia and Ukraine completed a large-scale prisoner exchange, with 303 Ukrainian prisoners of war swapped for the same number of Russian soldiers held by Kyiv. This marked the biggest prisoner swap since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. One former captive, Viktor Syvak, described his emotional homecoming, saying, “It’s impossible to describe. I can’t put it into words”.