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| Trump reacts to Russia’s largest air raid on Ukraine |
Russia struck Ukraine this past weekend with its heaviest aerial barrage yet. Ukraine’s air force reports 367 weapons—mostly drones—fired at 30 cities across 12 regions. At least 13 people died, including children. Dozens more suffered injuries. Civil infrastructure took heavy damage. Hospitals, schools and homes were hit. Ukraine’s stretched air defenses managed to shoot down many targets, but not all.
In response, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a blunt rebuke. On Truth Social, he wrote, “He has gone absolutely CRAZY!” He faulted Vladimir Putin for needlessly targeting civilians. Trump warned that such aggression could bring about Russia’s downfall. He questioned Putin’s judgment and motives. Trump noted he had once maintained a “very good relationship” with Putin, but said “something happened” to make the Russian leader lash out. He urged tougher sanctions and energy tariffs if peace talks stall.
On the ground, Ukrainian officials condemned the strikes. President Volodymyr Zelensky urged allies to tighten sanctions and provide fresh air defenses. He said Russia’s aim is clear: “They want to break our will.” Ukraine’s defense ministry confirmed 355 drones and nine missiles launched overnight Sunday into Monday. It called this the largest drone attack yet. The previous high was 298 drones and 69 missiles the night before.
Moscow claimed it intercepted 96 Ukrainian drones over 12 regions, including some near Moscow itself. Russian news outlets framed the assault as retaliation for Ukrainian attacks on Russian soil. The Kremlin thanked Trump for “emotional support,” suggesting his comments show Western unity against Ukraine.
In Washington, Biden administration officials voiced mixed reactions. Some welcomed Trump’s strong tone, seeing rare bipartisan pressure on Putin. Others worried Trump’s criticism carried political motives. They noted Trump blamed President Biden for letting the war drag on. Trump argued his policies would have prevented the conflict. He said ending the war would be his top foreign-policy goal if re-elected.
Analysts see risk in mixed messages from U.S. leaders. Clear, consistent backing of Ukraine matters for Kiev’s morale. Public disagreements weaken sanctions regimes and arms aid. Europe’s unity also faces tests as energy costs rise. Some EU members back tougher measures. Others fear blowback on their economies.
Military experts note Russia’s surge in drone use. Domestic production of kamikaze drones has climbed. They serve as cheap, expendable munitions. Ukraine counters with Western-supplied Patriot and S-300 systems. Yet new Russian missiles strain defense stocks. Analysts warn a prolonged drone war risks civilian tolls rising further.
Humanitarian groups report growing refugee flows. Thousands flee border areas after strikes destroy homes. Winter aid plans hinge on stable power and heating. Kyiv’s mayor appealed for new generators as blackout risks grow.
In the U.S. Congress, a bipartisan pair of senators proposed new sanctions targeting Russia’s drone-makers and oil pipelines. The bill awaits committee hearings. Lawmakers called Trump’s words a strong signal but stressed policy actions matter more than rhetoric.
Behind the scenes, diplomats continue shuttle talks in Geneva. Russia’s delegation refused to discuss cease-fire. Ukraine pressed for binding guarantees. Western mediators urged compromise to avert further bloodshed.
This weekend’s events mark a dangerous escalation. Russia’s record attack came amid talks of a fresh prisoner swap. Over a thousand POWs exchanged in Istanbul days before. Yet war talks remain stalled. Zelensky said the swap showed goodwill but “we need more than gestures.”
Trump’s sharp words drew praise from some Republican leaders. They said his blunt style sends a clear warning to autocrats. Critics said his timing—just before midterm votes—smacked of political theater.
Putin’s inner circle reacted coolly. The Kremlin called Trump’s post “emotional overload.” A Russian foreign ministry spokesperson said Western leaders exaggerate threats to justify arms shipments.
For Ukraine, the coming days will test its air defenses again. Russia hinted at renewed offensives in the northeast border. Towns near Kharkiv brace for drone raids. Emergency services stayed on high alert overnight.
A leaked Ukrainian memo seeks wider EU sanctions on Russian banks and steel. Ukraine wants to choke off funds for drone factories. The memo cites evidence of state subsidies for drone production.
International aid groups warn of growing civilian hardship. Food, water and medicine runs low in hard-hit towns. Doctors Without Borders called for “safe corridors” to reach trapped families.
In his Truth Social post, Trump closed with a stark warning: “If he goes for all of Ukraine, it will spell the end of Russia.” Many saw this as hyperbole. But it underscores the stakes of this conflict—one that could reshape Europe’s security order.
As Washington debates policy, Ukraine battles to defend its skies. The weekend’s record assault may leave lasting scars on both nations. And as Trump’s words show, global leaders watch closely for signs of resolve or weakness.