Trump Tells Putin to 'STOP' Russian Strikes on Kyiv in Unusual Plea

WASHINGTON — In a surprise move, Donald Trump used his Truth Social account to urge Russian leader Vladimir Putin to end military strikes on the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv. "Vladimir, STOP!" the Republican president wrote, adding that the attacks were "not necessary" and that it was “very bad timing.”

The post came as Russia launched a barrage of missiles and drones on Kyiv, killing at least 12 people and injuring 90 others. Trump is trying to propel a US-led effort at a peace agreement, and his frustration is growing. He has also been critical of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Trump's use of social media to reach out to Putin is unusual, and analysts are focusing on the geopolitical implications of the moment. Trump's callout to Putin by his first name, "Vladimir," is also notable, as heads of state and government are typically addressed with formal titles.

The use of social media as a diplomatic tool is a relatively new development, and it's unclear whether Putin will respond to Trump's plea. Trump has a history of using social media to amplify his opinions, often in a unconventional way. Whether this approach will be effective in this case remains to be seen.

Trump's post ended with a sense of urgency, calling for a peace deal to be done, and mentioning that 5,000 soldiers a week are dying. The world has been calling for an end to the conflict in Ukraine for over three years, but so fair, efforts have been unsuccessful.