News Today: US President criticizes Russian strikes (Kyiv attack), urges ceasefire

US President Donald Trump has issued a stern public statement criticizing the recent deadly missile strikes by Russia on Ukraine’s capital, Kyiv. Trump condemns deadly Russian strikes on Kyiv and urges ceasefire, breaking from his usual cautious tone toward Moscow and Vladimir Putin.

The overnight attacks on Thursday resulted in the deaths of at least 12 civilians and left dozens more injured. Speaking from the White House alongside Norway’s Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Trump declared: “Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP!” in a rare direct rebuke posted on his Truth Social account.

The strikes mark Kyiv’s deadliest assault since July 2024, further jeopardizing fragile peace efforts. Trump acknowledged he is “not happy” with the attacks, stressing that he’s putting a lot of pressure on both sides to bring the conflict to an end.

While the US president did not outline any specific retaliatory actions against Russia, he indicated a one-week window to evaluate progress. “Things will happen if the bombings do not end,” Trump warned.

Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who cut short a diplomatic trip to South Africa after the attacks, called on the US to apply more forceful pressure on Russia. Speaking at a joint press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Zelensky said, “A ceasefire must be the first step. Ukrainians are running out of patience—it is us who are under attack.”

Tensions have also risen due to Trump’s previous comments suggesting Ukraine might have to cede territory, including Crimea, as part of a potential peace deal. Zelensky responded by calling Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate “a huge compromise,” but emphasized Ukraine would not surrender sovereignty.

Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have since floated a proposal to freeze territorial lines, indicating a shift in US policy that Ukraine is hesitant to accept.

As the conflict escalates, Ukraine is now seeking stronger global alliances, particularly in Africa, where Russian influence is growing.