Douglas Kimathi,Jadetimes Staff
D. Kimathi is a Jadetimes news reporter covering political and business updates
In a move sending shockwaves through both Washington and global capitals, President Donald Trump has openly declared that he fully trusts Russian President Vladimir Putin to uphold his commitments under a proposed Ukraine peace deal. Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump praised Putin’s “strong leadership” and claimed that the Russian leader assured him personally that Moscow seeks a “lasting peace” in Eastern Europe. The announcement comes as negotiations between the U.S., Ukraine, and Russia have taken a sharp turn, with Trump increasingly sidelining Kyiv’s demands in favor of striking a direct understanding with Putin.
Zelensky Left in the Cold as Trump Sides with Moscow
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reportedly been blindsided by Trump’s public endorsement of Putin’s promises. According to sources close to Kyiv, Zelensky has grown increasingly frustrated by Trump’s unwillingness to fully back Ukraine’s conditions for peace. While Zelensky continues to demand the full withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied territories, Trump has instead hinted that a “compromise solution” could involve Ukraine giving up control over some eastern regions. This shift has fueled fears that the U.S. might abandon Ukraine’s sovereignty for the sake of securing a quick deal with Moscow.
Allies on Edge as NATO Questions America’s Commitment
The announcement has also set off alarm bells across NATO, where European leaders have openly questioned America’s reliability as an ally under Trump’s leadership. In Brussels, NATO officials expressed concern that Trump’s trust in Putin could unravel years of collective security efforts designed to counter Russian aggression. Germany, France, and Poland have reportedly pushed for an emergency NATO session to discuss how Europe can safeguard Ukrainian independence if Trump’s administration opts to reduce military aid to Kyiv in exchange for Russian promises.
Critics Warn of Putin’s Broken Promises History
Trump’s faith in Putin is drawing sharp criticism from across the political spectrum in the United States. Democrats and even some prominent Republicans have warned that Putin’s track record of breaking agreements — from Crimea to Syria — should make any U.S. president deeply cautious. Senator Mitt Romney slammed Trump’s remarks, calling them “recklessly naive,” while Democratic Senator Chris Murphy accused Trump of “selling out Ukraine in broad daylight.” Analysts warn that trusting Putin without enforceable guarantees could leave Ukraine defenseless and further embolden Russian expansionism.
Domestic Backlash Grows as Americans Divided on Trump’s Foreign Policy
Back home, Trump’s approach to Ukraine and his praise for Putin has further polarized an already divided American public. MAGA loyalists have praised Trump’s “pragmatic diplomacy,” arguing that America should prioritize peace over endless military spending. However, polls show that a growing number of independent voters and moderates view Trump’s trust in Putin as a dangerous gamble that weakens America’s global standing. The issue is quickly becoming a flashpoint in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections, with Democrats vowing to investigate Trump’s negotiations if they regain control of Congress.
What’s Next: Peace or Betrayal?
With Trump pushing ahead despite the backlash, the next few weeks could determine whether this gamble leads to a historic peace breakthrough — or a geopolitical disaster. Observers will be closely watching the terms of any finalized deal, particularly whether Ukraine’s territorial integrity is preserved or sacrificed. For now, the world is left wondering whether Trump’s trust in Putin is a masterstroke of diplomacy — or a dangerous miscalculation that could haunt the West for years to come.
Comments