Trump Defends Russia’s Strike as ‘Mistake’
President Donald Trump described Sunday’s Russian missile strike on the Ukrainian city of Sumy as a “terrible mistake,” prompting immediate backlash from Kyiv and European officials. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said he was told the attack, which killed 34 people and injured 117, was not intentional.
Ukraine, EU Reject Trump’s Statement
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky invited Trump to visit Ukraine and see the destruction firsthand. Kyiv labeled Trump’s remark “propaganda,” while Russia’s own defense ministry contradicted him, claiming the strike deliberately targeted a Ukrainian command center.
European Leaders Condemn Attack
Poland’s Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said Vladimir Putin was “mocking” Trump’s goodwill with continued aggression. EU ministers, meeting in Luxembourg, confirmed work is underway on a 17th round of sanctions against Russia.
Background on the Strike
Two Russian Iskander missiles struck Sumy on Sunday, one of the deadliest attacks in the war so far. Footage posted online shows destroyed vehicles and civilian casualties scattered across city streets.
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