The Kremlin dismissed the warnings as “emotional overload,” downplaying Trump’s harsh statements.
US President Donald Trump has intensified his criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin, warning that the Kremlin leader is “playing with fire” as Russia continues its barrage of airstrikes on Ukraine.
Posting on his social media platform Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump issued a stern message, suggesting that Putin is misjudging the seriousness of the current global situation. “He’s playing with fire,” Trump wrote. “If it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia — and I mean REALLY BAD.”
This latest warning follows Trump’s comments on Sunday, where he accused Putin of having “gone absolutely crazy” after Russian forces carried out airstrikes on Ukrainian targets for three straight nights. Trump, who has often highlighted his friendly ties with the Russian leader, seemed taken aback by Putin’s recent actions.
“I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia,” Trump said. “But something has happened to him.”
In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov brushed off Trump’s comments, describing them as an “emotional overload” and downplaying their significance.
The escalating exchange of words comes amid global alarm over Russia’s intensifying military campaign in Ukraine and growing tensions between Washington and Moscow.
Trump Weighs New Measures Against Russia
The Wall Street Journal reported that Trump is also considering new measures against Russia, driven by frustration over continued attacks in Ukraine and the stalled peace process with President Putin.
While additional financial sanctions are unlikely, the administration is exploring other forms of pressure, including a possible 30-day ceasefire proposal backed by Ukraine — though Moscow has repeatedly dismissed such offers.
Trump, who had once promised to end the war on his first day in office, may walk away from peace talks altogether if there’s no progress, according to sources cited by the WSJ. Even after a recent phone call with Putin that led to an agreement for direct talks between Ukraine and Russia, Trump maintained a hardline stance: “He’s sending rockets into cities and killing people, and I don’t like it at all.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated, “President Trump has been clear he wants a negotiated peace deal… [but] has also smartly kept all options on the table.”
