Mon May 26 05:12:46 UTC 2025: **News Article:**

**Trump Blasts Putin as “Crazy,” Warns of Russia’s Downfall; Criticizes Zelenskyy Amid Escalating Ukraine Conflict**

Morristown, NJ – Former U.S. President Donald Trump has sharply criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling him “crazy” in response to recent intensified airstrikes on Ukrainian cities. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, “He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people… Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever.”

Trump, who has previously expressed admiration for Putin, warned that any attempt by Russia to seize all of Ukraine would “lead to the downfall of Russia.” This marks a notable shift in Trump’s rhetoric, who has recently voiced frustration with Russia’s stalled peace negotiations with Ukraine.

Prior to boarding Air Force One, Trump reiterated his disapproval of Putin’s actions, stating, “He’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all.” He also expressed consideration for increasing sanctions on Russia in response to the escalating violence.

However, Trump’s statements appear to contradict earlier testimony from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who suggested Trump believed threats of sanctions would halt negotiations with Russia.

In addition to his criticism of Putin, Trump also took aim at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, stating, “Everything out of his mouth causes problems, I don’t like it, and it better stop.” He reiterated his claim that the war would not have occurred had he been president, blaming Zelenskyy, Putin, and current U.S. President Joe Biden for the conflict.

These comments come as Russia and Ukraine conducted a major prisoner swap, exchanging 1,000 captured soldiers and civilians each. However, the exchange was overshadowed by intensified Russian attacks, which resulted in the deaths of civilians, including children. Zelenskyy has called for stronger international pressure on the Russian leadership to halt the violence.

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