President Donald Trump expressed his displeasure with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a Cabinet meeting, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he described as "killing a lot of people" on both sides. This statement marked a notable shift from Trump's previous stance, where he had often aligned himself with Putin and praised the Russian leader for his actions.

During the meeting, Trump acknowledged that his earlier suggestions regarding the possibility of persuading Putin to end the conflict quickly had turned out to be "tougher" than he anticipated. His comments came just a day after he announced the United States would resume sending more weapons to Ukraine, reversing a prior announcement that called for a pause in military aid deliveries to Kyiv. This shift in policy was prompted by growing concerns about the depletion of U.S. military stockpiles and the ongoing humanitarian toll of the conflict.

In detailing the decision to send defensive weapons to Ukraine, Trump stated, "Putin is not treating human beings right," emphasizing the need to assist Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. His frustrations about the initial pause in weapon deliveries were reportedly directed at Pentagon officials, whom he believed had not adequately coordinated with the White House before announcing the halt.

Trump's comments revealed his evolving thoughts on foreign policy regarding Russia and Ukraine since returning to the White House in January. Last year, he had suggested a quick resolution to the war but has since publicly expressed dissatisfaction with Putin's continued military actions. He reiterated his discontent after a recent call with Putin, indicating that he does not believe the Russian leader is inclined to halt the ongoing conflict.

During a dinner event at the White House, Trump further expressed his unhappiness with Putin and remarked on the bravery of the Ukrainians, crediting them with utilizing U.S. military equipment effectively. He asserted that the war, which began with Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, could have been resolved much more quickly without the support and weapons provided by the U.S.

"It would have been a war that lasted three or four days," Trump claimed, highlighting the crucial role of U.S. military aid in prolonging Ukraine's resistance against Russia's advances. Although Trump praised the capabilities of the equipment supplied to Ukraine, he declined to provide specific details regarding the implications of his changing stance on U.S. foreign policy toward Russia during the Cabinet meeting.

This shift in Trump's rhetoric and policy represents a significant change from earlier instances where he showed a more favorable view of Putin. The evolving dynamics of the Ukraine conflict and pressures from military officials and allies have likely contributed to this transition in Trump's approach, as he navigates the complex geopolitical landscape.