• Trump questions Putin's desire to end the Ukraine war amidst recent missile strikes.
• Calls for secondary sanctions against Russia have emerged following attacks on civilian areas in Ukraine.
• A recent meeting with Zelenskyy in Rome underscored delicate peace negotiations.
• The geopolitical situation remains tense with pressure on Ukraine to concede territory.
• Trump accuses past administrations of leaving a “mess” and criticizes media coverage of the conflict.

President Trump expressed profound skepticism regarding Russian President Vladimir Putin's intentions to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, stating, "There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days." This comment came shortly after Trump's meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Vatican, marking their first diplomatic interaction since a tense encounter at the White House in February. Trump suggested that Putin may be "tapping me along," emphasizing the need for the U.S. to consider "Banking" or "Secondary Sanctions" as alternatives to prompt a resolution to the conflict, adding that “too many people are dying!!!” according to The Hill.

The discussion between Trump and Zelenskyy, described as a “very symbolic meeting,” revolved around efforts for a potential "full and unconditional ceasefire" and broader peace talks, as expressed in a social media post by Zelenskyy. Both leaders are aware of the fragile nature of the peace negotiations, heightened by the recent escalation of missile strikes launched by Russia that resulted in civilian casualties. Trump reiterated his stance on the necessity for direct talks between the involved nations, stating, “They are very close to a deal, and the two sides should now meet, at very high levels,” although specifics of any agreement remain undefined, as reported by Forbes and Los Angeles Times.

During his communication, Trump also emphasized that he is “not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv,” voicing frustration regarding the timing and necessity of the attacks, which claim the lives of soldiers and innocent civilians. This stance marks a rare public criticism of Putin by Trump, who has often praised the Russian leader in the past. While discussing sanctions, he noted the potential for imposing fresh restrictions on Russian economic activities, reflecting the pressure from his political allies, such as Senator Chuck Grassley, who urged for stringent measures against Putin, according to South China Morning Post and Business Insider.

As the situation unfolds, Trump has continued to advocate for peace negotiations, suggesting that major points are reportedly agreed upon, although Zelenskyy's commitment to Ukraine's territorial integrity remains firm. Notably, Zelenskyy has consistently refused to concede any Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, which remains a contentious issue in the negotiations. The meeting in Rome and the backdrop of Pope Francis' funeral added a poignant layer to the discussions, emphasizing the urgent need for peace, as revealed by Trump and Zelenskyy's interactions during the event, according to Los Angeles Times and Forbes.