In a notable move, former US President Donald Trump has publicly signalled his frustration with Russian leader Vladimir Putin. He did this by sharing a sharply critical editorial from the New York Post on his social media platform. The editorial argues that Russia is the primary obstacle to peace in Ukraine and urges Trump to adopt a more aggressive stance.
Editorial Details and Trump's Silent Endorsement
On Wednesday, Trump shared the editorial titled "Putin ‘attack’ bluster shows Russia is the one standing in the way of peace" without adding any personal comment. This act is seen as a clear, though tacit, endorsement of its contents. The piece directly challenges the recent narrative from the Kremlin that disrupted ongoing peace negotiations.
The editorial builds on Trump's earlier optimism following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, where progress toward a deal seemed possible. However, those hopes were dashed after a Monday phone call between Trump and Putin. During that call, Putin informed Trump that Russia would revise its negotiating position, citing allegations that Ukrainian drones had targeted one of his residences.
NY Post's Scathing Critique and Call for Action
The New York Post piece casts serious doubt on Russia's claims, which Ukraine has firmly denied. It dismisses the drone incident as a likely fabrication, stating that "on cue, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin chose lies, hatred, and death instead" of peace. The newspaper frames Russia's actions as a personal affront to Trump's diplomatic efforts.
"Just as he did in Alaska, Putin was offered peace and instead spat in America’s eye," the editorial reads. It further argues that Putin is neither an honest broker nor a viable business partner, highlighting Russia's global support for regimes in Iran and Venezuela as evidence that Moscow is actively opposing Trump's agenda worldwide.
The solution, according to the editorial, is not more concessions. "The answer should not be more concessions, but a bigger stick," it asserts. It concludes that Kyiv has fulfilled its obligations, and the pressure must now shift entirely onto Putin. The piece advocates for "more stringent sanctions and more deadly weapons in Ukraine" if Russia does not cooperate.
Contradictory Narratives and the Path Forward
Ukraine has consistently denied the attack allegations, labelling them a Russian fabrication designed to derail the peace talks. Interestingly, Trump himself expressed anger about the purported incident earlier this week, telling reporters, "It’s one thing to be offensive, because they’re offensive. It’s another thing to attack his house. It’s not the right time to do any of that."
However, the New York Post editorial firmly rejects Russia's explanation, suggesting "common sense points to an invented or embellished narrative" meant to sabotage Trump's diplomatic progress. The paper ends with a direct plea to Trump: "Spare us his crocodile tears and turn up the heat." By sharing this message, Trump has amplified a powerful call for a significant policy shift in his approach to Russia and the Ukraine conflict.
