Trump Signals New Approach to Russia
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Synopsis
On April 26, President Trump expressed his frustration with President Putin over airstrikes on Ukraine, suggesting a different approach involving sanctions. He questioned Putin's intentions and emphasized the need for a ceasefire and lasting peace during discussions with Ukraine's President Zelensky.
Key Takeaways
- Trump criticizes Putin's recent actions.
- Suggests new sanctions could be implemented.
- Calls for a ceasefire in Ukraine.
- Meeting with Zelensky described as productive.
- Concerns over civilian casualties highlighted.
Washington, April 26 (NationPress) United States President Donald Trump on Saturday voiced his escalating frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the recent airstrikes on Ukraine. He indicated a willingness to address Moscow 'differently' by implementing banking and secondary sanctions.
The American leader, who has often highlighted his personal rapport with his Russian counterpart as a crucial factor in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict, questioned whether President Putin was “tapping me along”, a term that implies misleading someone or feigning intent.
This latest criticism of the Russian leader follows a recent appeal from President Trump on Truth Social, urging him to halt the bombings in Ukraine. “Vladimir, Stop”, he wrote, a message perceived as a direct admonishment to President Putin.
“There was no justification for Putin to target civilian areas, cities, and towns over the past few days,” President Trump remarked on Truth Social, referencing the recent airstrikes on Kyiv. “It makes me think that maybe he doesn't want to stop the war, he's just tapping me along, and must be approached differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions’? Too many people are dying!!!”
This statement was made shortly after President Trump’s meeting with Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Vatican, ahead of Pope Francis’s funeral.
No specifics were disclosed regarding their conversation. A spokesperson from the White House described the meeting as “very productive”.
“Good meeting. One-on-one, we managed to discuss a lot. We hope for a result from all the discussions,” President Zelensky shared in a social media update. He further stated that they deliberated on the “protection of the lives of our people. A complete and unconditional ceasefire. A reliable and lasting peace to prevent the recurrence of war.”
He added: “It was a very symbolic meeting that has the potential to become historic if we achieve joint results. Thank you, President Donald Trump!”
Steve Witkoff, the Special Envoy for President Trump, met with President Putin in Moscow on Friday.
