Trump Criticizes Putin, Suggests Russia Is Not Doing So Well Amid Ongoing Ukraine War
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In an unusually critical tone towards Russian President Vladimir Putin, U.S. President Donald Trump voiced concerns about the Kremlin leader’s handling of the war in Ukraine, suggesting that both Russia’s economy and its international reputation are suffering as a result of the prolonged conflict.
Speaking at the White House shortly after his inauguration, Trump called on Putin to pursue a peace deal. “He should make a deal. I think he’s destroying Russia by not making a deal,” Trump said, noting the war’s impact on Russia’s economy, including inflation nearing 10%. He added, “Russia is going to be in big trouble. You look at their economy; you look at their inflation.”
Trump also referenced the heavy toll the war has taken on Russian forces, with Western estimates placing the number of Russian soldiers killed or injured at over 700,000. “He can’t be thrilled,” Trump said of Putin. “He’s grinding it out… it’s not making him look very good. I think he would be well off to end that war.”
In a surprising pivot, Trump revealed plans for a potential meeting with Putin, stating, “Could be very soon.” While reiterating his previous claim that he could end the war in Ukraine within 24 hours of taking office, Trump joked, “I have another half day left. We’ll see. We want to get it done.”
The U.S. president also hinted at a willingness from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to pursue diplomacy, noting recent signals from Kyiv about openness to talks under certain conditions. “Zelensky wants to make a deal,” Trump said. “I don’t know if Putin does. He might not. I don’t know.”
Zelensky welcomed Trump’s inauguration, describing him as a “strong man” and expressing optimism about U.S.-Ukraine cooperation. “Ukrainians are ready to work together with Americans to achieve peace—real peace. This is a chance that must be seized,” Zelensky said.
Trump’s remarks were among his most critical yet of Putin, focusing on the Kremlin’s economic mismanagement and the staggering human cost of the war. Analysts suggest this may signal a strategic shift, with the White House recognizing potential vulnerabilities in Moscow that could be leveraged diplomatically.
Previously, Trump and Vice President JD Vance had expressed skepticism about continued U.S. support for Ukraine, often hinting at the need for Kyiv to consider a truce with Russia, even if it meant territorial losses. However, Trump’s recent comments suggest a more nuanced approach, relying on his self-described "art of the deal" to seek a resolution.
Trump also renewed his criticism of European NATO allies, emphasizing the need for them to shoulder a greater share of the burden in assisting Ukraine. He proposed that NATO members contribute 5% of their GDP to defense spending, nearly doubling the requirement for many.
“The United States is funding Ukraine’s assistance to the tune of $200 billion more than Europe,” Trump said. “It’s ridiculous because it affects them a lot more. We have an ocean between.”
While Trump’s remarks underscored his frustration with NATO allies, they also reassured Kyiv by avoiding any suggestion of cutting off U.S. aid entirely. Instead, the focus remained on pressing Europe to increase its contributions.
Trump’s critical tone towards Putin and his calls for European NATO members to step up highlight a more complex strategy as the new administration navigates one of the most significant international crises of the decade.
