- President Trump posted on Truth Social saying he's "not happy" with Russian strikes on Kyiv that killed 8 people
- Trump urged Putin to "STOP!" and focus on peace talks
- President Zelensky cut short his South Africa visit after the attacks
- Zelensky believes more pressure on Russia could lead to closer negotiating positions
- Territorial disputes remain a major obstacle in peace negotiations
Trump's Response to Kyiv Strikes
US President Donald Trump has spoken out against Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine's capital. He says he's "not happy" with the deadly strikes that hit Kyiv overnight. Trump wrote this message on his Truth Social platform yesterday.
"Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying. Let's get the Peace Deal DONE!" Trump wrote in his post. This marks one of his most direct criticisms of Russian actions since taking office again in January.
The statement comes just days after Trump criticized Zelensky for what he sees as harming peace talks. Trump thinks Ukraine's tough stance on keeping Crimea is making it harder to end the war.
Some experts wonder if this new criticism of Russia shows a shift in Trump's approach. His administration has been pushing for a quick end to the conflict, even if it means Ukraine giving up land. But these fresh comments suggest Trump might want Putin to show more restraint during peace talks.
Russian Attack Details and Ukrainian Casualties
The overnight strikes on Kyiv were severe and deadly. They killed at least eight people and hurt 77 more, according to local officials in Ukraine. President Zelensky called it "undoubtedly one of the most difficult and impudent" attacks.
"If Russia says it is ready to cease fire, it must stop massive strikes against Ukraine. It is Ukrainians who are running out of patience, because it is us who are under attack, and no one else," Zelensky said after the strikes.
These attacks used both missiles and drones to target Ukraine's capital city. They happened while peace talks were going on in several countries, which many see as bad timing and possibly aimed at weakening Ukraine's position in talks.
The strikes have raised worries about a possible economic fallout beyond Ukraine's borders. Markets reacted nervously, with some analysts pointing to higher energy prices if the conflict gets worse again.
Zelensky's South Africa Visit and Response
President Zelensky was in South Africa when the attacks happened. This was his first ever visit to the country, marking a big change in their relationship. South Africa had been criticized before for not taking a clear stand against Russia's invasion.
Zelensky met with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria. But he had to cut his trip short because of the attacks back home. Before leaving, he told reporters that more pressure on Russia could help bring peace talks forward.
"We believe that if more pressure is applied to Russia, we'll be able to make our positions closer," Zelensky said during his visit. He added that Ukraine being willing to talk with Russia at all is already a "huge compromise."
The timing of this visit is important. Both countries are trying to build better ties as their relationships with the US have become more complex. South Africa has had problems with Washington, including having its ambassador expelled, while Ukraine is adjusting to Trump's different approach to the war.
US-Ukraine Relations Under Trump Administration
Since Trump won the election last November, US support for Ukraine has changed a lot. The new administration seems more focused on ending the war quickly than on helping Ukraine win back all its land.
Vice President JD Vance has talked about "freezing the territorial lines [...] close to where they are today." This idea would mean both sides would need to give up some areas they now control. But Vance didn't say exactly which places each side would need to give up.
The stock market has reacted to these policy shifts, with defense stocks dropping after Trump's push for quick peace talks. Some investors think a fast end to the war might mean less spending on weapons.
Ukraine now seems to be looking for other friends around the world, not just relying on the US. Zelensky's trip to South Africa shows this new approach. He wants to build ties with countries that have good links to both Russia and the West.
Peace Negotiations and Territorial Disputes
The biggest problem in peace talks is what to do about land. Ukraine has said many times it won't give up Crimea, which Russia took over in 2014. But Trump's team has hinted that Ukraine might need to accept some Russian control to end the war.
Trump said a peace deal was "very close" but blamed Zelensky for slowing it down by refusing to accept US terms. "Will do nothing but prolong" the fighting, Trump said about Ukraine's stance.
When reporters asked if the US might recognize Russia's control of Crimea, Trump didn't give a clear answer. He just said he wants the war to end. But experts say this would break international rules about not changing borders by force.
Recent Paris peace talks brought together officials from Ukraine, the US, UK, and Europe. Zelensky called these talks "difficult but constructive." He said they showed "a desire to continue working" rather than giving up.
South Africa's Role in Peace Talks
South Africa sees itself as a possible peacemaker in this war. President Ramaphosa says his country's neutral stance lets it talk to both sides of the conflict.
During his meeting with Zelensky, Ramaphosa said he had spoken to Putin earlier that week. The two "agreed to work together on a peaceful resolution to the conflict," according to Ramaphosa.
The South African leader also talked with Trump about ending the war in Ukraine. He said both agreed the fighting should stop as soon as possible. But Ramaphosa wouldn't say if he thinks Ukraine should give up land to Russia.
This new relationship between South Africa and Ukraine shows how global alliances are shifting. Two years ago, South Africa led a group of African countries on what they called a peace mission to Kyiv. Back then, Ukraine was unhappy that South Africa wouldn't condemn Russia's invasion.
Global Reactions and Future Implications
The deadly strikes on Kyiv have drawn strong responses from around the world. Many leaders have condemned the attacks, especially since they happened during peace talks.
At the same time, global markets are watching closely. Some experts think the Fed Chair Powell might consider these events when making decisions about interest rates, as ongoing war can affect global economic stability.
Tech companies have also been affected by the uncertain situation. Nvidia's recent losses partly reflect worries about global instability affecting supply chains and markets.
The coming weeks will be crucial for peace efforts. With Trump pushing for a quick deal, Zelensky seeking international support, and Putin continuing military pressure, the path forward remains unclear. Many analysts think a real cease-fire must happen before any meaningful peace talks can make progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did Trump say about the Russian strikes on Kyiv?
Trump posted on Truth Social that he was "not happy" with the strikes, calling them "not necessary" and saying they had "very bad timing." He directly addressed Putin, saying "Vladimir, STOP!" and mentioned that "5,000 soldiers a week are dying."
How many people were killed in the recent attacks on Kyiv?
According to Ukrainian officials, at least 8 people were killed and 77 others were injured in the overnight strikes on Kyiv.
Why was Zelensky visiting South Africa?
This was Zelensky's first visit to South Africa, aimed at building better relations with the country and seeking broader international support beyond traditional Western allies. South Africa has maintained relations with Russia throughout the conflict.
What is Trump's position on ending the war in Ukraine?
Trump has expressed a desire for a quick end to the conflict, even if it means Ukraine might have to give up some territory. His administration has suggested "freezing territorial lines" close to current positions.
Has South Africa changed its position on the Russia-Ukraine conflict?
While South Africa still maintains a neutral position and has good relations with Russia, Zelensky's visit shows some warming of relations with Ukraine. However, South Africa has not explicitly condemned Russia's invasion.
What are the main obstacles to peace negotiations?
Territorial disputes remain the biggest obstacle, particularly regarding Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Ukraine has consistently said it will not give up Crimea, while Trump's administration has suggested territorial compromises may be necessary.
How has the US-Ukraine relationship changed under Trump?
Since Trump's election in November 2024, US policy has shifted from strong support for Ukraine's territorial integrity to pushing for a quick peace deal that might involve territorial compromises. This has created tension in the relationship.
What role is South Africa playing in peace efforts?
South Africa positions itself as a potential mediator due to its relationships with both Russia and Ukraine. President Ramaphosa has spoken with both Putin and Trump about ending the conflict.