U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a blunt appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for an immediate end to the escalating conflict in Ukraine following a deadly missile and drone strike on Kyiv.

The attack, which killed at least nine people and injured more than 70 — including six children — marks the most devastating assault on the Ukrainian capital since July of last year.

“I am not happy with the Russian strikes on Kyiv. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5,000 soldiers a week are dying. Let’s get the peace deal DONE!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, his social media platform.

https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/114392923237368367

The attack comes at a critical moment as international diplomatic efforts to secure a peace deal appeared to be gaining traction. According to the Ukrainian Air Force, the Russian offensive involved 66 ballistic and cruise missiles, four air-to-surface missiles, and 145 Shahed and decoy drones, targeting not only Kyiv but also four other Ukrainian regions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was visiting South Africa at the time of the strike, condemned it as one of the most “sophisticated and brazen” offensives since the war began. He suggested the timing was deliberate, aimed at applying pressure on the United States and undermining Ukraine’s global support.

“Russia understands Ukraine is standing firm in defense of its sovereignty,” Zelensky said. “This is also aimed at pressuring America, which is why I believe this attack happened now.”

Following the assault, Zelensky announced he would return to Kyiv immediately. Emergency crews worked through the night to rescue civilians from the rubble of destroyed homes and apartment buildings, as the city’s skyline lit up with emergency lights.

The renewed violence has reignited global debate over potential territorial concessions, particularly Crimea, in any future peace agreement. Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out ceding any Ukrainian land, including Crimea, calling such proposals unconstitutional and unacceptable.

Trump, however, has taken a more pragmatic stance, urging Ukraine to reconsider its position. “They lost Crimea years ago,” he said earlier this week. “Zelensky can pursue peace now or fight for another three years and risk losing the whole country.”

Zelensky responded with a firm rebuttal: “We are adhering to everything our partners have proposed, but we cannot agree to anything that violates our Constitution.”

He also criticized Western nations for not taking stronger actions to curb Russian aggression. “I don’t see meaningful pressure or new sanctions coming from our allies,” he said.

Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance signaled a shift in Washington’s posture, warning that Ukraine’s refusal to consider territorial compromises could jeopardize continued American support.

As the humanitarian toll rises and diplomatic negotiations hang in the balance, the path forward remains as uncertain — and urgent — as ever.