President Donald Trump of the United States has expressed his dissatisfaction with Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as a terrible war and one of the deadliest events since World War II.
During a bilateral lunch with Argentine President Javier Milei at the White House, Trump stated, “I am very disappointed because Vladimir Putin and I had a very good relationship, probably still do. I don’t understand why he continues this war. It has been extremely detrimental to him. He is now entering the fourth year of a conflict that should have been resolved in one week.”
Trump, who has previously highlighted his personal relationship with Putin as a diplomatic advantage, appeared visibly agitated during his remarks. He mentioned, “He has likely lost around a million and a half soldiers. It’s a devastating conflict, one of the deadliest events since World War II in terms of casualties.”
These comments were made shortly before Trump’s upcoming meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where discussions are anticipated to center on the continuous military and financial support from Washington to Kyiv.
Trump’s statements followed reports that his administration was considering sending US-manufactured Tomahawk long-range cruise missiles to Ukraine. While speaking to journalists on Air Force One, Trump hinted at the possibility of diplomatic talks with Moscow before finalizing any arms deal.
“I may need to engage with Russia regarding Tomahawks,” he noted. “I had plans to send them if the Ukraine conflict wasn’t resolved.”
During the lunch at the White House, which followed a $20 billion economic aid package to support Argentina, Trump also commended his past diplomatic initiatives aimed at averting global conflicts. He referenced his involvement in easing tensions between India and Pakistan.
“I resolved eight conflicts. The most significant in terms of casualties was the India-Pakistan situation. I believe India and Pakistan also had great potential. We did a commendable job in that instance. However, Putin must work towards resolving this war,” Trump emphasized.