On Russia's Bombing Campaign:
"I'm very surprised by Putin intensifying strikes on Ukrainian cities while diplomatic talks are ongoing. He's killing so many people—I don't know what's happened to him. We’re in the middle of negotiations, and he’s firing missiles into Kyiv and other cities... I don’t like it at all."
On Potential Sanctions:
"Absolutely, I’m seriously considering additional sanctions. He’s killing so many people—what the hell is wrong with him?"
On Putin’s Ambitions (Truth Social Post):
"I’ve always said he wants all of Ukraine, not just part. If he does this, it’ll be Russia’s downfall."
Criticism of Zelensky:
"He’s no help to his country speaking the way he does. Everything he says causes problems... This war would never have happened if I were president. It’s Zelensky, Putin, and Biden’s war—not Trump’s. I’m just putting out their fires."
Context:
Follows Trump’s 2-hour call with Putin last week, after which he claimed Russia/Ukraine would "immediately begin ceasefire talks."
Contradicts Biden administration’s Ukraine policy, framing the conflict as avoidable.
Reflects Trump’s hardline rhetoric ahead of 2024 election.