President Trump slams ‘absolutely crazy’ Putin after massive rocket strikes on Ukraine, questioning what happened to the Russian leader with whom he once ‘got along with’.
At a Glance
- Trump criticized Putin’s massive aerial attack on Ukraine, calling him “absolutely crazy” and expressing confusion over his actions
- Russia launched a record 355 drones and 9 cruise missiles against Ukraine, killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens
- The attacks occurred while US-brokered peace talks were underway, derailing diplomatic efforts
- Trump expressed frustration that the war continues despite his campaign promise to quickly resolve the conflict
- Ukraine agreed to a 30-day ceasefire proposal, but Russia has only offered to work on a “memorandum” for future peace
Trump’s Unexpected Criticism of Putin
In a stark departure from his usual tone, President Trump lashed out at Vladimir Putin following a devastating Russian air raid on Ukraine. Speaking to NBC on May 26, 2025, Trump denounced the Russian leader’s conduct as “absolutely crazy,” expressing disbelief that someone he once “got along with” could now launch strikes during peace negotiations.
“I’m not happy with what Putin’s doing. He’s killing a lot of people,” Trump said. “We’re in the middle of talking, and he’s shooting rockets into Kiev and other cities. I don’t like it at all.”
Watch a report: Trump Lashes Out at Putin After Strikes.
Russia’s Deadliest Escalation Yet
According to BBC News, Russia’s latest assault involved 355 drones and nine cruise missiles, marking the largest such strike since the invasion began. Ukrainian officials confirmed at least 12 deaths and dozens of injuries, despite downing hundreds of drones. The timing is seen as a direct rebuke of ongoing peace efforts.
Putin’s decision to escalate amid peace talks has undermined progress toward a ceasefire and shocked even those closest to the process. “Something has happened to him,” Trump lamented. “He has gone absolutely crazy.”
The attacks come after Trump and Putin reportedly held a productive two-hour phone call discussing a potential 30-day ceasefire. Ukraine agreed to pause hostilities—but Moscow responded with a barrage of firepower, casting doubt on its sincerity.
Peace Talks in Jeopardy
The strikes have effectively derailed U.S.-backed negotiations aimed at halting the war. Al Jazeera reported that Trump expressed outrage over Putin’s duplicity, noting the contradiction between Moscow’s diplomatic rhetoric and its brutal military actions.
Trump’s strategy for ending the war—predicated on his personal rapport with Putin—is now under pressure. Critics argue his optimistic timeline has failed, while supporters maintain that his forceful condemnation signals a new phase in negotiations.
Yet behind the public drama, there are glimmers of diplomatic activity. The two countries recently completed their largest prisoner swap since 2022, exchanging over 600 captives. Analysts suggest this could serve as a foundation for renewed talks—if Putin is willing to engage seriously.
Can Trump Still Broker Peace?
Despite setbacks, Trump insists he remains committed to ending the war. His criticism of Putin surprised both allies and critics, challenging claims that he has been too lenient with the Russian leader. “He is needlessly killing a lot of people,” Trump said, highlighting a tonal shift that may signal a tougher stance moving forward.
Whether Trump can still deliver on his promise to end the war remains uncertain. But with Ukraine battered and Russia emboldened, the former president’s diplomatic gamble faces its most critical test yet.
