Despite his frustrations, Trump remains optimistic about negotiations with Russia amid ongoing turmoil in Ukraine.
**Trump's Mixed Feelings on Putin: Disappointment Yet Persistence**
**Trump's Mixed Feelings on Putin: Disappointment Yet Persistence**
In a recent BBC interview, President Trump expressed disappointment in Putin while reaffirming his commitment to diplomatic engagement.
In an exclusive phone interview with the BBC, President Donald Trump articulated his disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing that he is not finished engaging with him. Responding to questions about trust, Trump stated, "I trust almost no one," amid rising tensions related to the conflict in Ukraine. This conversation followed his announcement of plans to supply weapons to Ukraine and a stern warning about imposing severe tariffs on Russia should a ceasefire not be reached in the coming weeks.
The call, which took place from the Oval Office and lasted about 20 minutes, aligned with an upcoming interview to mark the anniversary of the attempted assassination that occurred during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reflecting on whether the attempt altered his perspective, Trump expressed a desire to move past it, acknowledging that dwelling on it could lead to significant changes in mindset.
During the discussion, Trump elaborated on his complicated views regarding Putin, noting that he had anticipated reaching a deal with Russia on four separate occasions. When asked if he deemed their relations over, Trump responded: "I'm disappointed in him, but I'm not done with him." He expressed ongoing frustration with the conflict's escalation, stating, "We'll have a great conversation. I'll say: 'That's good, I'll think we're close to getting it done,' and then he'll knock down a building in Kyiv."
The dialogue then shifted towards NATO, an organization Trump has previously criticized as outdated. However, he acknowledged a change in perspective, asserting, "NATO is now becoming the opposite of that" due to nations taking greater responsibility for their defense. He maintained his belief in collective defense, emphasizing its importance for smaller countries against larger adversaries.
As the conversation veered to the UK's role on the global stage, Trump fondly spoke of his investments there and shared his anticipation for his second state visit in September. He emphasized the importance of building rapport, stating, "Have a good time and respect King Charles, because he's a great gentleman."
The call, which took place from the Oval Office and lasted about 20 minutes, aligned with an upcoming interview to mark the anniversary of the attempted assassination that occurred during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reflecting on whether the attempt altered his perspective, Trump expressed a desire to move past it, acknowledging that dwelling on it could lead to significant changes in mindset.
During the discussion, Trump elaborated on his complicated views regarding Putin, noting that he had anticipated reaching a deal with Russia on four separate occasions. When asked if he deemed their relations over, Trump responded: "I'm disappointed in him, but I'm not done with him." He expressed ongoing frustration with the conflict's escalation, stating, "We'll have a great conversation. I'll say: 'That's good, I'll think we're close to getting it done,' and then he'll knock down a building in Kyiv."
The dialogue then shifted towards NATO, an organization Trump has previously criticized as outdated. However, he acknowledged a change in perspective, asserting, "NATO is now becoming the opposite of that" due to nations taking greater responsibility for their defense. He maintained his belief in collective defense, emphasizing its importance for smaller countries against larger adversaries.
As the conversation veered to the UK's role on the global stage, Trump fondly spoke of his investments there and shared his anticipation for his second state visit in September. He emphasized the importance of building rapport, stating, "Have a good time and respect King Charles, because he's a great gentleman."
