Trump lashes out at Putin in emotional two-word rebuke as Ukraine peace talks collapse

Donald Trump launched into a furious tirade against Vladimir Putin during an early morning phone call Sunday, repeatedly stating he was “pissed off” at the Russian president for questioning Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy. The outburst came after Putin suggested Ukraine needed new leadership to achieve peace.

Speaking with NBC’s Kristen Welker, Trump warned of severe economic consequences if Russia derails ongoing peace negotiations. “If a deal isn’t made, and if I think it was Russia’s fault, I’m going to put secondary sanctions on Russia,” Trump declared, proposing 25-50% tariffs on Russian oil and banning offending nations from U.S. markets. The president plans to unveil these measures Wednesday as part of his “Liberation Day” economic initiative.

The diplomatic tensions follow apparent progress in U.S.-brokered peace talks earlier this month. Trump expressed particular anger over Putin’s Friday remarks in Murmansk, where the Russian leader demanded Zelensky’s resignation, claimed military superiority, and vowed to “finish them off.” Putin suggested UN-administered leadership in Kyiv, arguing Zelensky’s extended tenure under martial law invalidated his authority.

Despite the confrontation, Trump maintained his personal relationship with Putin remains “good,” confirming plans for another call this week. The president’s strong defense of Zelensky marks a shift from previous criticism of the Ukrainian leader and complaints about U.S. involvement in the conflict.

The breakdown comes as Russian forces continue their offensive, capturing two more villages (Shchebraki and Panteleimonivka) on Saturday. Moscow has intensified its controversial resettlement program in occupied Zaporizhzhia, offering Russians incentives to occupy homes abandoned by fleeing Ukrainians – a policy critics compare to ethnic cleansing.

The developments follow last month’s tense Oval Office meeting between Trump, Vice President J.D. Vance and Zelensky, where American leaders pressed the Ukrainian president to publicly thank the U.S. for military aid. While Trump touts his negotiation skills and Putin relationship as assets, the ongoing Russian advances underscore the challenges facing diplomatic efforts.