WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump voiced dissatisfaction with both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Sunday, as the United States continues efforts to mediate a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
Speaking during an interview at Mar-a-Lago and later to reporters on his return flight to Washington, President Trump acknowledged progress in ceasefire negotiations but described “tremendous hatred” between the two leaders, suggesting continued challenges ahead.
President Trump stated that he was “angry” over recent comments by President Putin, who questioned Zelenskyy’s legitimacy and claimed Ukraine required external oversight to negotiate a peace agreement. In response, Trump said he was considering additional sanctions on Russia and might apply tariffs targeting its oil exports, though no formal action has been announced.
Although the President rarely comments directly on Putin, he has previously raised concerns about Zelenskyy’s leadership. He has publicly argued that Ukraine should hold elections despite the country’s constitution prohibiting them under martial law.
While en route to Washington on Sunday evening, President Trump reiterated his concerns about Russia’s commitment to negotiations but noted his long-standing familiarity with President Putin. He indicated there was a “psychological deadline” for Russia to agree to a ceasefire and warned against prolonged stalling in the talks.
In Moscow, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that President Putin remains open to communication with President Trump. He added that no conversation was currently scheduled but said one could be arranged if necessary. Peskov also stated that Russia continues its efforts to engage with the United States on bilateral matters.
President Trump also addressed ongoing discussions with Ukraine over access to rare earth minerals, suggesting that President Zelenskyy was reconsidering an agreement related to U.S. access. Trump said Zelenskyy had attempted to renegotiate the deal in exchange for stronger security assurances. He further commented on Ukraine’s aspirations to join NATO, stating that full membership was unlikely.
Meanwhile, a U.S. proposal for a 30-day full ceasefire has not been accepted by Russia. Talks for a limited ceasefire in the Black Sea region have also been affected by new conditions set by Kremlin negotiators.
In Ukraine, Russian drone attacks targeted Kharkiv over the weekend, striking a military hospital, a shopping center, and residential buildings. According to Ukraine’s General Staff, the hospital was deliberately targeted, resulting in the deaths of a 67-year-old man and a 70-year-old woman. Several others, including service members receiving treatment, were injured.
Ukrainian officials report that Russian forces may be preparing for a new offensive aimed at increasing pressure on Kyiv and strengthening their position in ongoing negotiations.
