Trump Urges Putin to Halt Deadly Strikes on Kyiv, Calls for Ceasefire Progress

Following Russia’s deadliest aerial assault on Kyiv in months, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a rare and direct appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying, “Vladimir, STOP!” The attack, involving over 200 missiles and drones, killed at least 12 civilians and injured 90 in the Sviatoshinsky district, prompting global concern.

President Trump condemned the strikes as “not necessary” and “bad timing,” while urging restraint and renewed peace efforts. His comments came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rushed back from South Africa and accused Russia of using North Korean ballistic missiles.

In ongoing ceasefire talks, Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit Moscow, while NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized that the responsibility for peace lies with Russia. Tensions rose as Trump also criticized Zelenskyy’s stance on Crimea, calling it a roadblock to negotiation, though Ukraine maintains it cannot compromise its Constitution.

Zelenskyy, expressing frustration, said allies must increase pressure on Russia, citing a lack of new sanctions. The recent attack adds to fears that hopes for a ceasefire are slipping, despite U.S. efforts.

Eyewitnesses in Kyiv described devastation, with residents pulled from rubble and homes shattered. Russia claimed it targeted defense production sites.

This latest escalation underscores the urgency for diplomatic solutions and international unity in curbing further violence.