Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a direct and urgent appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for an immediate halt to missile and drone attacks on Kyiv. The message came following Russia’s largest and deadliest assault on the Ukrainian capital this year, which claimed the lives of at least 12 people and injured more than 90 others.
In a statement posted on his Truth Social platform, Trump wrote simply, “Vladimir, STOP!” His response came after an 11-hour Russian onslaught involving 66 missiles and 145 drones, targeting five districts across Kyiv and causing extensive civilian damage. The scale and intensity of the attack have sparked international outrage and renewed concerns over the escalating humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.
Trump’s message represents a significant shift in tone. While he has previously criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and suggested concessions such as ceding Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014, his latest remarks express clear disapproval of the Kremlin’s continued military aggression. He described the April 24 attack as “unnecessary and poorly timed,” especially as efforts continue to pursue a diplomatic resolution to the conflict.
In his follow-up statements, Trump warned that the failure to reach a peace agreement could lead to severe consequences, including increased economic sanctions and trade restrictions on Russia. He framed his call for peace as a favor not only to Ukraine but also to Russia and its leadership, underscoring the importance of avoiding further escalation.
The Kremlin has not formally responded to Trump’s plea. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov maintained that Russia is targeting only military-related infrastructure and reiterated Russia’s openness to a respectful and equal dialogue. Despite these claims, the civilian toll continues to rise, further fueling global condemnation.
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has dismissed any suggestion of concessions and reaffirmed that lasting peace depends entirely on Moscow’s willingness to end hostilities. European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have also opposed Trump’s earlier remarks on territorial compromise, insisting that Ukraine’s sovereignty and borders must be upheld.
Trump’s message adds to growing international pressure on Russia to de-escalate and return to meaningful negotiations. The former president’s public intervention highlights the urgency of renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent further tragedy and restore stability in the region.