Trump Says He’s ‘Disappointed’ in Putin Over Ukraine, Hints at U.S. Action

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has conveyed his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin in relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Trump, who has been actively seeking a resolution to the war, including direct meetings with both Zelenskyy and Putin, shared his feelings during an interview. He has repeatedly voiced his concern regarding the fatalities resulting from the war. Despite Trump’s endeavors, the war persists. Trump conveyed his disappointment with Putin regarding the situation in Ukraine, citing the absence of a peace agreement following their Alaska meeting. Trump stated he feels let down, mentioning that their relationship had been positive earlier. Trump also hinted at potential actions the U.S. might take to reduce casualties in the conflict, without elaborating further. Additionally, he indicated a lack of concern regarding the increasing friendship between Russia and China. Trump stated that he is not worried about the growing relationship between Moscow and Beijing. He underscored the strength of the U.S. military, suggesting that neither China nor Russia would use their military against the U.S. Trump’s comments followed a summit in Tianjin, China, where President Xi Jinping hosted President Putin. During the summit, Jinping referred to Putin as an old friend. Jinping also held discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose energy ties with Russia have been criticized by Trump. Putin is currently in China and will take part in a military parade. Trump met with Putin in Alaska in August and later welcomed Ukrainian President Zelenskyy with European and NATO leaders in Washington. Trump expressed his hope that Zelenskyy and Putin would have a direct meeting before any potential trilateral discussions, in which he plans to participate. While Zelenskyy has blamed Moscow for obstructing such talks, Russia claims that the agenda is still being finalized. Trump assured Zelenskyy that the U.S. would support Ukraine’s security in any agreement and suggested further sanctions against Russia if peace efforts stall.