Former President Donald Trump voiced strong criticism toward Russia for launching missile attacks amid ongoing peace negotiations between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Speaking to reporters, Trump expressed deep disappointment over the timing of the strikes, calling for restraint and urging a diplomatic path forward.
Trump noted that the peace talksâreportedly initiated by Putin, possibly to stave off further Western sanctionsâhad reached a critical juncture, with a meeting planned in Istanbul. While Zelenskyy had agreed to participate, it remained uncertain whether Putin would attend.
A potential ceasefire agreement under discussion among U.S. officials included controversial terms such as recognizing Russian control of Crimea and freezing current battle lines. Zelenskyy firmly rejected the proposal, stating that Crimea was not up for negotiation. He underscored that the conflict began with the annexation of Crimea and must end with its return to Ukraine.
Trump placed blame for the Crimea situation squarely on former Presidents Barack Obama and Joe Biden, claiming they failed to act when Russia first seized the territory. âThey let it happen without lifting a finger,â he said.
Calling on Putin to halt military operations, Trump insisted a peace deal was âwithin reachâ and highlighted what he described as his administrationâs stronger, more respected approach to global diplomacy.
In a separate address, Trump also responded to recent anti-ICE protests in Los Angeles, where demonstrators reportedly clashed with law enforcement. Condemning acts of aggressionâspecifically reports of protesters spitting on officersâhe announced disciplinary measures for those involved and confirmed the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops.
He further revealed that Marines were on standby and that he was considering invoking the Insurrection Act should unrest escalate. âWe will not tolerate lawlessness,â Trump stated, as more protests were expected in the coming days.