US President Donald Trump made a statement justifying Vladimir Putin's actions in Ukraine. In his opinion, the Russian president is doing what any person would do because he wants to resolve the situation.
Trump: “Putin is naturally attacking harder”
During a speech on March 7 in the Oval Office, Trump was asked about Putin's attacks on Ukraine. The US president assessed the situation as natural:
“I think he is doing what any other person would do. I believe he wants to stop this and resolve the issue. He may be hitting harder than before. And clearly, anyone in his position would be acting exactly the same way,” Trump said.
The US may withdraw from Ukraine
Trump's administration halted military aid to Ukraine on March 4, and later stopped providing intelligence information to Kyiv. This situation limited Kyiv's ability to obtain necessary information for striking military targets in Russian territory.
“I need to know that they (Ukraine) want to make a deal. If Kyiv does not want to resolve the war, we will withdraw from there,” Trump said.
“Working with Russia is easier than with Ukraine”
Trump emphasized that he trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin and that working with him is easier than working with Ukraine.
“I think everything is fine with Russia, but at the same time, they are seemingly bombing Ukraine as if they are cursed. Working with Ukraine is much more difficult,” he added.
Trump: “If Moscow does not come to the negotiating table, we will impose tough sanctions”
At the same time, Trump warned Russia that if Putin refuses to negotiate with Ukraine, extensive economic sanctions will be imposed on Moscow.
“Considering that Russia is currently crushing Ukraine on the battlefield, I am seriously considering imposing comprehensive banking sanctions and customs duties on Russia. These measures will continue until the shooting stops and a final peace agreement is reached,” Trump said.
Russia intensified its attacks
After the US stopped aid to Ukraine, the Russian army heavily bombarded Kyiv and other cities.
According to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, on the night of March 7, Russia launched nearly 70 missiles and about 200 drones. The attacks primarily targeted energy infrastructure and civilian objects.
Donald Trump's attempt to justify Putin and criticize Ukraine could create various problems in the international community. At the same time, Washington's cessation of aid to Kyiv opens up significant strategic opportunities for Russia. Ukraine is still waiting for clear support from its Western partners. In the coming days, how the situation between Kyiv and Moscow unfolds will largely depend on the next decisions of the US.
