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Within the past two weeks, President Trump has hosted Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Washington in an effort to negotiate peace.
Trump believes that neither side is currently willing to lay down arms (Reuters Image)
The recent Russian missile strikes on Kyiv have left US President Donald Trump deeply disappointed, particularly in light of his recent attempts to mediate between Russia and Ukraine to bring an end to the war. Despite his efforts to initiate dialogue and even prepare for a trilateral meeting with both leaders, the conflict has escalated further.
During a press briefing on Thursday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed Trump’s dismay over the worsening situation. “President Trump is not happy with the current situation,” she stated. The president is expected to make an official statement later today, addressing the Russian assault and sharing his perspective on the ongoing war, which shows no sign of de-escalation.
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According to Leavitt, while Trump is disappointed, he is reportedly not surprised by the latest developments. “Perhaps both sides of this war are not ready to end it,” she said, also noting that Ukrainian forces have recently targeted Russian oil infrastructure in retaliation.
Leavitt added that the president may issue an additional statement regarding the conflict as the day progresses.
Within the past two weeks, President Trump has hosted both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in an effort to negotiate peace. Despite what appeared to be progress, including talks of a three-way summit, Russia launched a deadly attack on Kyiv, its most severe since July. The strikes have claimed the lives of at least 19 civilians, including four children.
The attack damaged several buildings in Kyiv, including office spaces used by the EU delegation and the British Council. While no foreign diplomats were killed, international condemnation was swift and sharp.
Strong Reaction From UK, EU
The Russian strikes drew immediate criticism from key Ukraine allies. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz remarked on Thursday that it has become “obvious” a meeting between Putin and Zelensky will not take place, despite earlier agreements made in Washington.
In response to the strikes, the UK government summoned Russia’s ambassador to deliver a stern warning: further attacks would only deepen the UK and Europe’s commitment to supporting Ukraine.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen conveyed solidarity in a personal phone call to Zelensky, while the EU’s chief diplomat accused Moscow of mocking ongoing peace initiatives. Russia’s envoy to Brussels was also summoned.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni condemned the attacks on X, stating that the strikes made clear “who stands on the side of peace and who has no intention of believing in negotiations.” She added, “Our thoughts go to the Ukrainian people, to civilians, to the families of defenceless victims, including children, of the senseless Russian attacks.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres also issued a statement, calling the Russian strikes on Ukrainian cities “unacceptable” and demanding an immediate end to the violence.
- Location :
Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)
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