Trump condemns Russia’s Kyiv strike and says he may meet with Putin and Zelenskyy to push peace efforts.

Trump Open to Peace Talks After Deadly Kyiv Assault

President Donald Trump said this week he would consider meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “if necessary,” in an effort to facilitate an end to the ongoing war. His remarks follow a massive aerial assault by Russian forces on Ukrainian cities, which Ukrainian officials have described as the largest attack of the war so far.

On Sunday night, Russia launched 298 drones and 69 missiles, targeting multiple cities including Kyiv. At least 12 civilians were killed and dozens more injured. President Trump condemned the strike and said he was “very disappointed” by the loss of life. “I don’t like what’s happening,” he said. “We’re not going to allow it.”

During a White House swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday, Trump responded to questions about Putin’s intentions, stating, “I can’t tell you that, but I’ll let you know in about two weeks.” He added, “Within two weeks, we’re going to find out whether or not he’s tapping us along or not.”

Trump emphasized that the U.S. is already engaging in strong diplomacy through Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, who is “doing a phenomenal job.” The president confirmed that the administration is working closely with counterparts to coordinate potential negotiations, possibly in Geneva or Istanbul, though no dates have been finalized.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has reportedly expressed willingness to meet with both Trump and Putin. Trump affirmed his openness to participate. “Well, if it’s necessary… we have to,” he said. “We’re working on President Putin, and we’ll see where we are.”

Special Envoy Keith Kellogg is currently preparing for discussions in Geneva, while the Russian Foreign Ministry has yet to accept the U.S. proposal and continues to draft its memorandum of terms. Russia has suggested that Istanbul might be a preferred location for talks.

President Trump also took to social media, where he criticized both Putin and Zelenskyy. He said Putin “has gone absolutely CRAZY,” accusing him of escalating violence. Regarding Zelenskyy, Trump remarked that “everything out of his mouth causes problems.” He added, “It better stop.”

In a Telegram post, President Zelenskyy urged the international community to respond to the Russian assault. “The silence of America, the silence of others in the world only encourages Putin,” he wrote, calling for new sanctions.

Trump concluded by distancing himself from the origins of the conflict. “This is a war that would never have started if I were President,” he wrote. “This is Zelenskyy’s, Putin’s, and Biden’s War, not ‘Trump’s.’ I am only helping to put out the big and ugly fires, that have been started through Gross Incompetence and Hatred.”