Former President Donald Trump expressed disappointment with Russia for launching missile strikes amid ongoing peace talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Trump addressed reporters on various topics, including the Russia-Ukraine conflict and stalled diplomatic negotiations. Putin initially proposed talks, seemingly to avert Western sanctions, while Zelenskyy responded by offering to meet in Istanbul. Although the Kremlin confirmed it would send a team, it did not specify whether Putin would attend. U.S. officials reportedly discussed a ceasefire proposal involving recognition of Russian control over Crimea, which Zelenskyy firmly rejected, stating that any resolution must include Crimea’s liberation. Trump blamed former Presidents Obama and Biden for the loss of Crimea, stating it was “given away” without resistance during their administrations. He called on Putin to “stop shooting” and sign a peace deal, asserting that the U.S. is now respected globally due to his leadership.
In another development, Trump addressed civil unrest in Los Angeles related to anti-ICE demonstrations. Following reports that protesters had spit on police officers, he authorized the deployment of at least 2,000 National Guard troops and warned of further action. Speaking from New Jersey alongside Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Trump condemned the protestors’ behavior and said he was considering invoking the Insurrection Act. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth placed an additional 500 U.S. Marines from Camp Pendleton on standby. With more protests expected in California throughout the week, Trump emphasized law enforcement and accountability, signaling a strong federal response to continued unrest.
