In Jealous Quest, Trump Urges Putin to End Ukraine War, Criticizes Burevestnik Missile
Trump Urges Putin to End Ukraine War, Criticizes Burevestnik Missile Test as “Completely Inappropriate”
During a high-profile trip to Asia, U.S. President Donald Trump issued a direct appeal to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging him to halt the ongoing war in Ukraine instead of showcasing new missile technology. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump labeled the recent test of Russia’s nuclear-powered Burevestnik cruise missile as “completely inappropriate” and emphasized that the war, which was expected to conclude quickly, has now dragged into its fourth year.
Trump pointedly remarked, “He must end the war in Ukraine. A conflict that was due to end in a week is already coming into its fourth year. That’s what Putin should do—not launch missiles.” This criticism comes just a day after Moscow announced the successful test of the Burevestnik missile, a weapon capable of carrying nuclear warheads over virtually unlimited distances with a low-flying, unpredictable trajectory, known within NATO as SSC-X-9 Skyfall.
Highlighting U.S. strategic deterrence measures, Trump noted the presence of America’s “finest” nuclear submarine stationed off Russia’s coast, suggesting that the U.S. does not need missiles with the extended range touted by Russia’s new missile test. Trump also reaffirmed his stance that diplomatic solutions remain preferable, mentioning his earlier diplomatic efforts including a peace initiative and a recent meeting with Putin in Alaska, which he described as “a promising step towards peace.” However, he expressed frustration as escalating Russian military strikes contradicted hopes for de-escalation.
In tandem with diplomatic pressure, the U.S. has bolstered sanctions targeting Russian energy giants like Rosneft and Lukoil. Before departing for Asia, Trump made it clear he would not engage in further negotiations until a genuine peace deal is within reach, saying, “I’m only going to sit down at the table if I know there’s a chance of a deal. I’m not going to waste my time.” He acknowledged his historically positive relationship with Putin, while decrying the current situation as “extremely disappointing.”
The missile in question, Burevestnik, was first revealed by Putin in 2018 and is designed to evade missile defenses with its nearly unlimited range. Putin, appearing in camouflage at a recent military briefing, proclaimed the missile’s successful testing as a breakthrough for Russia’s military prowess. The public exchange between Trump and Putin underscores the tense geopolitical environment shaped by the Ukraine conflict, evolving nuclear capabilities, and persistent efforts toward diplomatic resolution.
