Trump Urges Putin to Stop Attacks, Former Ambassador Calls Putin Obstacle to Peace

Trump's Reaction to Russian Strikes

• ⚡ President Trump expressed unhappiness with recent Russian strikes on Kyiv, calling them "not necessary" and "very bad timing."
• 💬 He urged Vladimir Putin to "STOP!" the attacks, citing the high number of soldiers dying and the need to "get this peace deal done."

Ambassador Herbst's Analysis of Putin's Objectives

• 🎯 Ambassador John Herbst stated that Vladimir Putin's clear objective is to gain effective political control.
• 🚫 The Russians have consistently rejected peace terms, including proposed ceasefires in March and on the Black Sea, making Putin the obstacle to peace.

Trump Administration's Stance on Crimea

• 📌 Trump suggested that Crimea was "handed over" during the Obama administration without a fight and that getting it back would be "very difficult."
• ⚠️ Ambassador Herbst expressed shock, noting that Trump's policy seems to echo Obama's, particularly regarding Crimea.
• 🇺🇦 He highlighted that American officials, including Obama's Secretary of State, had urged Ukrainians not to fight for Crimea in 2014.

Historical US Policy on Territorial Conquest

• 🏛️ Herbst referenced the long-standing US policy of not recognizing the conquest of territory through force, citing the Soviet seizure of the Baltic States.
• 📜 He mentioned the Pompeo Declaration, which strengthened this policy by stating the US would never recognize Russia's taking of Crimea.
• 📉 While acknowledging Russia's control of Crimea, Herbst cautioned against giving it political legitimacy.
• 🔄 He drew parallels between Obama's failed attempt at a reset with Russia and Trump's current discussions about a reset.