U.S. President Donald Trump lashes out at Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling him “crazy” and warning that his actions in Ukraine could lead to Russia’s downfall.
Trump’s outburst followed Russia’s largest-ever drone assault on Ukraine, which killed at least 13 people, including children aged 8, 12, and 17.
The deadly strikes came as Ukraine and Russia carried out a massive prisoner exchange involving 303 captives from each side.
“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform.
“I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia!” he added.
Trump’s comments marked a notable shift from his usual tone toward Putin, a leader he’s often spoken of in favorable terms.
While maintaining that he “always got along” with the Russian president, Trump said he was deeply disturbed by the latest attacks and hinted at possible increased sanctions against Moscow.
“I’ve known him a long time, always gotten along with him, but he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all,” he told reporters.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian officials described the mood as one of “terror” after a second straight night of intense Russian air strikes.
Ukraine’s military said it shot down 266 drones and 45 missiles overnight.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged stronger international pressure on Russia, saying the world’s silence only emboldens Moscow.
“Without truly strong pressure on the Russian leadership, this brutality cannot be stopped,” Zelensky said on social media.
“The silence of America, the silence of others around the world only encourages Putin,” he added. “Sanctions will certainly help.”
Top European leaders echoed the call for tougher sanctions.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas condemned the strikes, calling them proof of Russia’s intent to destroy Ukraine.
“Last night’s attacks again show Russia bent on more suffering and the annihilation of Ukraine,” she said.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul also supported further sanctions.
“Putin does not want peace, he wants to carry on the war and we shouldn’t allow him to do this,” he said. “For this reason we will approve further sanctions at a European level.”
