Trump appears disappointed in Putin, Finnish PM says amid Ukraine strikes
Photo: Petteri Orpo (Getty Images)
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo said the recent attacks on Kyiv over the weekend deserve condemnation. He expressed hope that Trump understands that Putin does not want peace, according to Demokraatti.
During a press conference held in connection with an informal meeting of Nordic prime ministers in Finland, Orpo noted that Russia's attacks were mostly aimed at civilians. This, he said, indicates that Russia is not interested in peace talks.
The prime minister was also asked about Trump’s recent remarks in which he said Putin had "gone crazy." According to Orpo, Trump, who has said he hopes for peace, appears to be disappointed in the Kremlin leader.
"I hope these statements show that Trump understands Putin does not want peace. Putin wants to continue his war and the killing of innocent people in Ukraine," Orpo said.
He added that he hopes the situation will eventually lead to genuine peace negotiations and a ceasefire, ultimately resulting in lasting peace. Later, in an interview with the media, Orpo said he hopes Trump’s remarks will prompt tougher US action.
"I hope this provokes a response in the United States, one that reacts more firmly and decisively to Putin’s and Russia’s actions, so that we can move toward peace negotiations," Orpo said.
The publication notes that the main topics of the Nordic prime ministers’ meeting were comprehensive security and competitiveness. On Monday, the countries issued joint statements on both issues.
The event was organized by Finland and the Åland Islands, and also included representatives from Greenland and the Faroe Islands. Other participants voiced particular support for Greenland, which has drawn interest from the US president.
Trump slams Putin and Russia
Trump commented for the first time on Russia’s recent strikes on Ukraine during the night.
At first, he told reporters he didn’t know what had happened to Putin, but that he didn’t like what he was seeing. He soon posted a statement saying Putin has "gone absolutely crazy."
"I’ve always had a very good relationship with Vladimir Putin of Russia, but something has happened to him. He has gone absolutely CRAZY! He is needlessly killing a lot of people, and I’m not just talking about soldiers. Missiles and drones are being shot into Cities in Ukraine, for no reason whatsoever. I’ve always said that he wants ALL of Ukraine, not just a piece of it, and maybe that’s proving to be right, but if he does, it will lead to the downfall of Russia,” the post read.
