Politic

Donald Trump slams Putin as “crazy” after Russia launches its largest airstrike on Ukraine, killing dozens of civilians.

26 May 2025 2 min

On Sunday night, Russia launched 367 drones and missiles targeting multiple Ukrainian cities. This marked the largest overnight attack since the full-scale invasion began in 2022. At least 12 civilians were killed and dozens injured, including a child in Kharkiv.

Air raid sirens blared again early Monday across many Ukrainian regions, signaling ongoing threats. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned Washington's “silence,” claiming it emboldened Putin to escalate further.

“The U.S. must apply stronger pressure and harsher sanctions on Moscow,” Zelensky urged in his address.

At a press conference in New Jersey, Donald Trump—previously known for his amicable ties with Putin—issued a sharp rebuke:

"What the hell happened to him? He's killing a lot of people."

Shortly after, he posted on Truth Social:

“Putin has gone absolutely crazy.”

Trump reiterated his long-held belief that Putin seeks to take all of Ukraine, not just parts of it. He warned that such ambitions would

“lead to the downfall of Russia.”

Trump also directed harsh criticism toward Ukrainian President Zelensky, stating that his tone “only causes problems.”

“Everything out of his mouth causes problems. I don’t like it, and it better stop,” Trump wrote.

The remarks sparked controversy, with critics arguing that his stance undermines U.S. support for Ukraine amid its darkest hour.

Last week, Trump and Putin reportedly held a two-hour phone call to discuss a proposed U.S.-backed ceasefire. Trump claimed the call was “very productive” and that both sides would soon begin negotiations to end the war.

Ukraine has already signaled its willingness to implement a 30-day ceasefire, while Putin responded vaguely, offering to draft a “memorandum” on a “potential future peace”—a move Kyiv and European allies described as a stalling tactic.

Russia currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, annexed in 2014.

The first direct talks between Ukraine and Russia since 2022 were held on May 16 in Istanbul, Turkey. Yet, aside from a significant prisoner exchange, no substantial progress was made toward ending the conflict.

With both leaders under scrutiny, many international observers are beginning to question America’s effectiveness as a neutral mediator, especially after Trump openly criticized both parties.

This escalation not only worsens the humanitarian crisis but also shakes the global diplomatic landscape. Amid the deadliest airstrikes since the war began, Trump’s remarks may have broad implications:

• The U.S. may lose credibility as a peace broker.

• EU-U.S. relations could be tested.

• Putin’s internal political standing could face pressure if war efforts fail.

Donald Trump’s statement calling Putin “crazy” marks a dramatic shift from their previously warm relations. Yet, his simultaneous criticism of Zelensky suggests a confusing stance that may undermine U.S. diplomacy. As the world hopes for de-escalation, clashing egos and uncertain leadership may only deepen the fog of war.