‘Vladimir, STOP!’: Trump publicly scolds Putin over Kyiv strikes

Deadly Russian attacks on Kyiv have led to an unusual public criticism from U.S. President Donald Trump, who spoke directly to Russian President Vladimir Putin, asking him to stop the strikes. The attacks killed at least eight people and injured many more. This situation has continued to escalate during President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s trip to South Africa.

The timing was especially notable because it happened during Zelenskyy’s first visit to Africa since Russia’s full-scale invasion began. As reported by BBC, this trip to South Africa was meant to build stronger ties with African nations and push back against Russia’s increasing influence there.

Trump’s response was surprisingly blunt. His message on Truth Social, saying, “Vladimir, STOP!” along with his frustration and worry over the rising death toll, is different from his past statements, which often seemed to support Russia’s side in the war, per BBC.

Russia bombs Kyiv as Ukraine Seeks African support

The worsening relationship between the U.S. and Ukraine cannot be easy on South Africa, which has a careful position in the conflict. The circumstances surrounding the Kyiv attacks are important. Recently, a meeting in London saw Ukrainian, U.S., UK, and European officials discussing peace talks. Zelenskyy called these talks “difficult but constructive” as they tried to find a way to a ceasefire.

Many African countries, including South Africa, have avoided condemning Russia’s actions, giving both Ukraine and Russia a chance to build new alliances. Trump’s call for a peace deal is a big change, especially since he has previously accused Zelenskyy of blocking peace by refusing to accept Russia’s control of Crimea. This position went against international law and Ukraine’s own constitution.

Zelenskyy’s visit to South Africa is especially important because of the troubled US-Ukraine relationship under Trump. With the U.S., once Ukraine’s biggest weapons supplier, now seeming less supportive, Ukraine is working to build stronger ties with other countries. South Africa, while staying neutral, could be a way for Ukraine to grow its influence in Africa.

At the same time, the tense relationship between the US and South Africa under Trump, caused by arguments over trade policies and South Africa’s position on Israel, makes the situation even more complicated. President Cyril Ramaphosa spoke with both Putin and Trump by phone, trying to encourage a diplomatic solution. Some see Ramaphosa’s efforts to push for a full peace deal as a way to improve his reputation as a peacemaker, especially considering South Africa’s history in conflict mediation.

However, his approach has been criticized for seeming too neutral toward Russia and not taking strong action against the invasion. Ramaphosa’s meetings with Zelenskyy were meant to improve relations between Ukraine and South Africa, but he did not promise anything regarding territorial compromises, instead repeating his support for an immediate ceasefire.