President Donald Trump has strongly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for launching the largest air attack of the war on Ukraine, calling the Russian leader’s actions “crazy” and warning of possible new U.S. sanctions.
On Sunday evening, May 25, 2025, Russia sent 355 drones and nine cruise missiles across dozens of Ukrainian cities, including the capital, Kyiv. According to Ukraine’s Air Force, the attack killed at least 12 people and left many others injured.
Trump: “Putin is killing a lot of people”
Speaking to reporters, Trump said he was shocked by Putin’s latest assault:
“I’ve known him a long time… but he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people. I don’t like it at all.”
Trump also confirmed he is considering more sanctions on Russia, saying, “Absolutely.”
Later that night, he took to social media, writing:
“Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY! He’s needlessly killing a lot of people.”
Russia Responds: Kremlin Thanks Trump but Downplays Remarks
In response, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov tried to ease tensions. He called Trump’s outburst an “emotional reaction” and added:
“We are really grateful to the Americans and to President Trump personally for their assistance in organizing and launching this negotiation process.”
Despite the tension, Russia acknowledged Trump’s efforts to promote a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.
Russia Rejected Ceasefire Plan Proposed by U.S.
While Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day unconditional ceasefire proposed by the U.S., Putin rejected it, according to U.S. officials. This comes even after a two-hour phone call between Trump and Putin just last week.
Although a prisoner exchange was completed recently between the two countries, experts say there’s no real progress toward ending the war.
Trump Blames Both Putin and Zelenskyy
In his posts, Trump suggested that Putin wants all of Ukraine, not just parts of it:
“If he tries to take all of Ukraine, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!”
Trump also criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stating:
“Everything out of his mouth causes problems. I don’t like it, and it better stop.”
This isn’t the first time Trump has taken aim at Zelenskyy. The two have had a complicated relationship over the years, especially during Trump’s previous presidency.