Former U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump, who has been actively involved in efforts to mediate a resolution to the conflict, stated his dismay during a recent interview. He had previously met with both President Zelenskyy of Ukraine and Putin in an attempt to facilitate peace. Trump has also expressed concern over the casualties resulting from the war. Despite his efforts, the conflict continues. In the interview, Trump indicated that he feels let down by Putin, specifically referencing the lack of progress in reaching a peace agreement following their meeting in Alaska. He noted that while their relationship had been positive, he is now disappointed. Trump also hinted at potential actions by Washington aimed at reducing the loss of life in the conflict, stating that the U.S. is preparing to take steps to save lives, though he did not provide further details. Additionally, Trump expressed a lack of concern regarding the growing relationship between Russia and China, asserting that the U.S. possesses the strongest military in the world, making any military action against the U.S. by China or Russia unlikely. This statement comes shortly after a summit in Tianjin, China, where President Xi Jinping hosted President Putin, referring to him as an old friend. During the summit, Jinping also spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose energy relations with Russia have been criticized by Trump. Putin is currently on a visit to China, where he is participating in a military parade. Trump met with Putin in Alaska in August and later hosted Ukrainian President Zelenskyy with European and NATO leaders in Washington. He expressed his hope that Zelenskyy and Putin would meet directly before any trilateral talks, in which he would participate. While Zelenskyy has accused Moscow of obstructing such talks, Russia maintains that the agenda is still being prepared. Trump has assured Zelenskyy that the U.S. would assist in securing Ukraine’s safety in any agreement and reiterated that further sanctions against Russia could be implemented if progress towards peace remains stagnant.
