Trump Blames Zelenskyy for War After Russian Strike Kills 35

Donald Trump has once again made global headlines — and this time, it affects more than just American voters. It impacts the rest of the world, including South Africa.

Just days after a devastating missile attack killed 35 people — including two children — in the Ukrainian city of Sumy, US President Donald Trump publicly blamed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his part in the ongoing war with Russia.

Speaking from the White House, Trump said the war could have been prevented and named three individuals he holds responsible for the bloodshed: Russia’s Vladimir Putin, former US President Joe Biden, and Zelenskyy himself.

“Biden could’ve stopped it, Zelenskyy could’ve stopped it, and Putin should never have started it,” Trump told reporters, according to Sky News.

Trump’s Controversial Comments After Deadly Attack

The missile strike in Sumy occurred during a Palm Sunday celebration and is considered one of the deadliest attacks in Ukraine this year. Over 100 people were injured in the assault, which Russia claims was aimed at a military target — though no evidence has been shared to back that claim.

Trump, who has repeatedly promised to bring an end to the war, took the moment to place blame on Ukraine’s leadership.

“You don’t start a war with someone 20 times your size and hope people give you missiles,” he said.

Why This Matters to South Africa

At first glance, it might seem like a distant war. But Trump’s policies and international stance have direct ripple effects on global trade, diplomacy, and security — all of which touch South Africa.

Trump is known for surrounding himself with close allies like Elon Musk, the South African-born billionaire who now plays a key role in the Trump administration through the Department of Government Efficiency. Together, they’re reshaping how the United States deals with its allies, global agreements, and foreign wars.

From trade policies and sanctions to shifting alliances, what Trump says and does on the global stage matters to Mzansi — especially with the country’s growing ties to BRICS, China, and other emerging powers.

A Dangerous Shift in Blame?

Trump’s criticism of Zelenskyy comes at a time when Ukraine continues to plead for international support against Russian aggression. While Trump claims he wants to “stop the killing,” many analysts argue that blaming the victim — rather than the aggressor — sends a dangerous message.

Zelenskyy has called on the international community for help, warning that delays in support only embolden Putin’s forces. Meanwhile, Russia continues to strike civilian targets under the pretense of military action.

What’s Next?

Trump has hinted at a bold peace proposal, though no details have emerged. His re-election campaign continues to leverage foreign policy as a key talking point, presenting himself as the only leader capable of ending the war swiftly.

But for now, his comments have sparked controversy and raised new concerns about how future US leadership will approach one of the most devastating wars of the decade.

{Source: Scrolla}

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