In a wide-ranging conversation, President Trump shared his complex feelings towards Vladimir Putin and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, indicating he is "disappointed" yet not ready to sever ties. Despite announcing military aid to Ukraine and signaling potential tariffs on Russia, Trump emphasized his need for continued dialogue with the Russian leader.
### Trump's Disappointment with Putin Amidst Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
### Trump's Disappointment with Putin Amidst Ongoing Ukraine Conflict
In a phone interview with the BBC, President Trump expressed disappointment in Vladimir Putin while announcing military support for Ukraine.
In exclusive comments made during a 20-minute phone call with the BBC, President Trump articulated a nuanced stance regarding his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin. While he expressed clear disappointment with Putin, particularly concerning the conflict in Ukraine, Trump stated he is "not done" with the Russian leader, reinforcing his belief in the necessity of engagement.
Regarding trust, Trump remarked, "I trust almost no-one," highlighting his cautious approach to international relations. This phone interview followed his prior commitments to support Ukraine militarily to deter further aggression from Russia, combined with a warning of severe tariffs if peace was not achieved rapidly.
Despite previously dismissing NATO as "obsolete," Trump showed a shift in perspective, endorsing the alliance during the discussion and praising its evolving effectiveness. "NATO is now becoming the opposite of that," he said, noting that member nations were increasingly paying their dues.
When pressed on the assassination attempt he survived last year, Trump preferred to stay focused on the present, choosing not to dwell on its potential impact on his leadership style. He described how he has previously believed in the possibility of a deal with Russia but faced repeated setbacks, such as recent bombings in Ukraine.
Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about his upcoming state visit to the UK in September, emphasizing a desire to prioritize good relations, especially with King Charles III, whom he respects.
In essence, Trump's dialogue balances his overt commitments to support Ukraine and NATO while reflecting a complicated and strategic approach to dealings with Russia, underpinned by a deeper acknowledgment of his disappointments.
Regarding trust, Trump remarked, "I trust almost no-one," highlighting his cautious approach to international relations. This phone interview followed his prior commitments to support Ukraine militarily to deter further aggression from Russia, combined with a warning of severe tariffs if peace was not achieved rapidly.
Despite previously dismissing NATO as "obsolete," Trump showed a shift in perspective, endorsing the alliance during the discussion and praising its evolving effectiveness. "NATO is now becoming the opposite of that," he said, noting that member nations were increasingly paying their dues.
When pressed on the assassination attempt he survived last year, Trump preferred to stay focused on the present, choosing not to dwell on its potential impact on his leadership style. He described how he has previously believed in the possibility of a deal with Russia but faced repeated setbacks, such as recent bombings in Ukraine.
Looking ahead, he expressed excitement about his upcoming state visit to the UK in September, emphasizing a desire to prioritize good relations, especially with King Charles III, whom he respects.
In essence, Trump's dialogue balances his overt commitments to support Ukraine and NATO while reflecting a complicated and strategic approach to dealings with Russia, underpinned by a deeper acknowledgment of his disappointments.
