THREAD: trump and putin absence sparks

RUSSIA-UKRAINE Peace Talks Shattered: Putin’s Cold Rejection Sparks Global Outrage

17 May 2025 — Russia and Ukraine met in Turkey to talk peace, but the meeting lasted less than two hours. The only thing both sides agreed on was a prisoner swap. Hopes for a 30-day ceasefire went nowhere, even after Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy spoke with former President Trump and other allies.

The Kremlin quickly shot down Trump’s plan for a ceasefire. This led many to say Putin has no real interest in ending the war. UK Labour leader Keir Starmer called out Putin for playing “pointless games” instead of working toward peace.

In other news, the International Criminal Court prosecutor who targeted Israel’s prime minister stepped aside after sexual misconduct claims. This move shook up global legal efforts and left many questions unanswered. Israeli leaders also pushed back hard against UN accusations of “genocide” in Gaza as tensions grew.

Trump finished his Middle East trip by making economic deals and warning Iran about its actions. Survivors held by Hamas pleaded with both Netanyahu and Trump after an American hostage was freed. Other headlines included Uruguay’s former president Mujica passing away at 89, Australia seizing $400 million in cocaine, and Poland closing Russia’s Krakow consulate over suspected Kremlin-linked arson.

TRUMP And PUTIN Absence Sparks Chaos at Peace Talks

16 May 2025 — Confusion broke out at the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Turkey after both President TRUMP and Russian leader Putin said they would not attend. The meeting, set for Thursday, was pushed to Friday as officials scrambled to figure out who would actually show up.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio voiced his doubts about any real progress without Trump or Putin in the room. He said, “It’s clear that only a direct meeting between President Trump and President Putin will move things forward.”

With neither Putin nor top Kremlin aides present, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and others waited in separate Turkish cities. Frustration grew as it became obvious that key leaders were missing from the table.

The push for peace started when Putin suggested direct talks with Ukraine last week. Zelenskyy agreed but stressed both nations’ leaders must be involved for any deal to work.

TRUMP STANDS Firm: Iran’S Chilling Threats Spark Urgent Nuclear Showdown

09 May 2025 — President Trump’s team is back at the table with Iran, trying to stop their illegal nuclear plans. But Iran won’t talk directly. Instead, they send messages through Oman, showing they don’t want open talks.

The head of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard, a group the U.S. calls terrorists, threatened both America and Israel. He warned that if we make “the slightest mistake,” Iran will “open the gates of hell.” While he claims to prefer diplomacy, he says his country is ready for war.

Iranian state media tried to calm things down by saying they’d only hit back if attacked first. Still, their leader made it clear — anyone who strikes Iran will pay a heavy price.

This general has become more visible since President Trump ordered the strike on Soleimani in 2020. The new Quds Force leader stays out of sight, leaving many wondering about his real role in the regime.

TRUMP and ZELENSKYY’S Hopeful Ceasefire Call: A Step Toward Peace

20 March 2025 — President Donald TRUMP and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had a “very good” phone call about a preliminary agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump shared the news on Truth Social, highlighting that Russia and Ukraine’s requests align well. He stated, "We are very much on track.

Zelenskyy described the call as “positive, very substantive, and frank,” thanking Trump for productive teamwork in Jeddah. The Ukrainian leader is hopeful about achieving lasting peace with American leadership, believing cooperation with the U.S. could end the war this year.

Putin agreed to pause attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure for 30 days. However, this does not include frontlines or civilian areas as initially hoped by Trump’s administration. Ceasefire talks continue as both nations strive for a peaceful resolution under U.S. guidance.

TRUMP vs PUTIN: The Dramatic Ukraine Ceasefire Standoff

17 March 2025 — An upcoming virtual summit, led by Starmer’s “coalition of the willing,” will discuss military and financial aid for Ukraine. The meeting will also consider a peacekeeping mission if Russia agrees to talks.

About 25 countries, including European partners and Ukraine, plan to join. Notably missing is the United States, which has changed its stance on the war under President Donald Trump after his recent clash with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.

The U.S. proposed a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, backed by Zelenskyy but met with conditions from Putin. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed “cautious optimism” about Putin’s potential agreement after talks with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.

Starmer doubts Putin’s intentions and criticizes his delay tactics regarding Trump’s peace plan. He insists that concrete commitments are needed as Putin continues playing “pointless games” with ceasefire proposals, showing little seriousness about achieving peace.

PUTIN PRAISES Trump: Calls for True Peace in Ukraine

13 March 2025 — Russian President Vladimir PUTIN thanked Donald Trump for his efforts to end the Ukraine conflict. Yet, Putin stressed the need for true peace, not just a 30-day ceasefire. He agreed with the idea but emphasized resolving deeper issues with American partners.

Putin spoke at a Moscow news conference, supporting an end to fighting but urging solutions to root problems. Meanwhile, U.S. officials met Saudi and Russian leaders in Riyadh about regional stability and security. Key figures included Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security advisor Mike Waltz.

Though Putin didn’t reject Ukraine’s ceasefire deal outright, he noted challenges like Ukrainian troops in Russia’s Kursk region. He argued that a ceasefire would mainly help Ukraine by giving it time to regroup and rearm its forces.

In these conditions,“ Putin said, ”it would be good for the Ukrainian side to secure a ceasefire for at least 30 days.

MACRON’S Bold Accusation: Putin Branded an "Imperialist

08 March 2025 — French President Emmanuel Macron has called Russian President Vladimir Putin an “imperialist.” This came after Putin compared Macron’s nuclear deterrent proposal to Napoleon’s actions. The exchange highlights the ongoing tension between France and Russia over military and geopolitical strategies. It underscores the broader conflict in international relations as both nations navigate their roles on the global stage.

CYCLONE ALFRED’S WRATH: Australia Faces HAVOC

Cyclone Alfred, now a tropical low, continues to batter Queensland with severe weather. A body was found during the search for a man swept away by floodwaters, showing the storm’s deadly impact. Emergency services are responding to significant property damage across affected areas.

POPE FRANCIS’S HEALTH SCARE: Concerns MOUNT

Pope Francis has been hospitalized for three weeks due to double pneumonia, raising concerns about his health at 88 years old. His hospitalization marks a vulnerable time for the Pope, who is engaging in prayers and therapy during treatment. The situation highlights his frailty amid ongoing health challenges.

The United States has stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine shortly after suspending military aid, sparking worries over Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russia. US negotiators are working on finding ways to address these

EUROPEAN UNION in Turmoil: Defense Woes Under Trump

06 March 2025 — European Union leaders rushed to Brussels for emergency talks, worried about U.S. support under President Donald TRUMP. They focused on boosting European security and protecting Ukraine. Friedrich Merz, Germany’s likely next chancellor, and summit chairman Antonio Costa discussed quickly strengthening Europe’s defenses.

Merz pushed for easing Germany’s debt rules to boost defense spending. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron proposed using France’s nuclear capabilities to protect Europe from Russian threats. This is a big change since Trump began disrupting U.S.-Europe security ties.

Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stressed the need for more defense spending across Europe, a big shift from past budget priorities where military funding was low. Macron promised that EU countries would increase military budgets and work together on advanced weapon production in Europe.

US INTEL CUTS to Ukraine Spark Fears of Abandonment

06 March 2025 — The UNITED STATES has stopped sharing intelligence with Ukraine, causing worry among European allies. President Macron warned Europe to prepare for a future where the US might not be as supportive. This change comes amid the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

In response, EU members are holding emergency talks to strengthen support for Ukraine. They aim to address changing dynamics and ensure continued backing for Kyiv in its fight against Russian aggression.

Meanwhile, severe weather during Mardi Gras destroyed a recently rebuilt camp in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana. Owner Christian Amedee believes a tornado caused the damage, adding more hardship after reconstruction efforts.

In other news, former President Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas about Israeli hostages in Gaza. He suggested dire consequences if civilians held hostages during negotiations in Qatar aimed at resolving the conflict and securing hostage releases.

ZELENSKYY’S London Trip: A Bold Stand Amid Trump Drama

02 March 2025 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy received a warm welcome from British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street in London. This meeting followed a tense encounter with former President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C. Despite reporters’ questions about the spat, Zelenskyy remained silent on the matter.

The visit to London came after a public disagreement with Trump and Vice President JD Vance during a televised Oval Office meeting. Britain has agreed to provide Ukraine with a $2.84 billion loan for military assets, according to reports from the Associated Press.

Prime Minister Starmer expressed strong support for Ukraine upon greeting Zelenskyy, emphasizing Britain’s commitment to standing by Ukraine for as long as necessary. He highlighted the importance of achieving lasting peace based on sovereignty and security for Ukraine and Europe.

Starmer’s remarks underscored Britain’s unwavering determination to support Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia. The meeting aimed to reinforce diplomatic ties and discuss further cooperation between the two nations in pursuit of peace and stability in Europe.

“TRUMP’S Bold Peace Plan with Russia and Ukraine Stirs EU Fears”

28 February 2025 — European leaders are worried about President Trump’s efforts to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia. The EU’s top diplomat claims Russian President Putin is not interested in peace. Trump mentioned having “very good talks with Russia” but did not share details on any progress made.

NATO allies and long-time U.S. partners are frustrated by Trump’s remarks on Ukraine, seeing them as an attempt to improve ties with Moscow. EU High Representative Kaja Kallas stressed the need for dialogue but noted Russia’s reluctance for peace.

Trump held his first Cabinet meeting, stating NATO membership was not an option for Ukraine, which could change the conflict’s dynamics. Kallas urged more economic and political pressure on Russia to strengthen Ukraine both militarily and diplomatically.

As Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy work towards a minerals deal, there is hope it might lead to ceasefire talks, though doubts linger about its effect on achieving lasting peace.

TRUMP and Zelenskiy’s BOLD Minerals Deal: A Game-Changer Without Security Guarantees

26 February 2025 — President TRUMP announced that Ukrainian President Zelenskiy will visit Washington on Friday. The purpose of the visit is to sign a significant minerals deal. This follows a recent tense exchange between the two leaders.

The draft agreement focuses on critical minerals, crucial for various industries, but notably omits U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine. This omission may raise concerns about Ukraine’s strategic position in the region.

Despite previous tensions, both leaders seem eager to finalize this economic agreement. The deal highlights the importance of resource access over military assurances in current U.S.-Ukraine relations.

MACRON PLEADS With Trump: Stand Strong Against Putin

24 February 2025 — French President Emmanuel Macron is urging former President Donald Trump to stand firm against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Macron’s comments come as he prepares to meet Trump on the third anniversary of the Ukraine war. He warns that showing weakness to Putin could harm credibility with China.

Macron wants Trump to include European leaders in U.S.-Russia talks, according to AFP. Trump’s willingness to engage with Putin without Europe has worried many there. Macron argues that Russia is a serious threat and stresses the need for a united response.

Trump’s openness for diplomacy with Putin has unsettled European nations, who have struggled for three years without peace with Russia. Macron is working hard to align Europe in response to Washington’s policy change, insisting Europe must act together against Russia’s military power.

Macron claims his visit represents all of Europe after talks with various continental leaders. His efforts highlight Europe’s urgency regarding Russia’s aggressive stance and the need for coordinated international action against it.

TRUMP’S BOLD Move: Meeting Putin in Saudi Arabia Sparks Debate

12 February 2025 — Former President Donald Trump announced plans to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia. This follows a phone call about the Ukraine conflict. Trump’s statement comes as U.S.-Russia tensions rise and peace talks continue.

Trump stressed the need to engage with global leaders to ease hostilities. He called Putin a “smart player” and suggested direct talks could lead to progress on Ukraine. Reactions are mixed, with some supporting his diplomatic approach and others criticizing potential normalization with Russia during its military actions in Ukraine.

Analysts are watching this possible meeting closely, as it might signal a shift in U.S. policy towards Russia under the current administration. The situation in Ukraine remains contentious globally, with U.S. allies backing Ukrainian forces against Russian aggression.

Trump’s remarks come amid Republican debates on future foreign policy directions and relations with Russia, highlighting differing views within the party on how best to handle international conflicts like Ukraine’s ongoing crisis.

TRUMP’S FAA Shake-Up: A Shocking Move or Necessary Change?

31 January 2025 — A tragic incident in the Potomac River has put the Trump administration under scrutiny. Critics argue that President Trump’s focus on DEI might distract from urgent issues, just ten days into his presidency. A congressman quickly pointed fingers, suggesting this could be a diversion from more pressing matters.

Concerns have been raised over Trump’s delay in appointing an acting FAA administrator after the previous one resigned due to conflicts with Elon Musk. Additionally, Trump fired leaders of the TSA and Coast Guard without naming immediate replacements, sparking worries about aviation security. The Aviation Security Advisory Committee also saw members dismissed despite its long-standing role since the 1980s.

Phillip highlighted that air traffic controllers might resign and accept buyouts offered by Trump without a replacement plan in place. She described Trump’s press conference as shocking yet predictable, criticizing its timing amid ongoing grief and uncertainty about the incident’s cause.

The conversation also touched on disability hiring policies and whether Trump’s remarks shift responsibility onto individuals at the FAA. Phillip stressed that while personnel changes are within presidential rights, having replacements ready is crucial for maintaining essential operations like air traffic control.

TRUMP’S Bold Return: Global Alliances Shaken

28 January 2025 — President Donald Trump has re-entered the White House, quickly overturning Biden-era policies and pulling out of major international agreements. His actions have left global partners unsure about their standing. Allies and adversaries are closely watching how Trump’s second term will unfold on the world stage.

In his first 100 hours, Trump signed executive orders, including one labeling Mexican cartels as foreign terror organizations. Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago and attended his inauguration, supporting his push for increased NATO defense spending. Meloni is seen as a key EU contact amid fears of a potential trade war with Europe under Trump’s leadership.

Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time ally of Trump, expressed excitement for Trump’s return to office but missed the inauguration due to scheduling conflicts. Orban sees this as an opportunity to challenge what he calls Brussels’ "left-liberal oligarchy.

Argentina’s President Javier Milei seeks stronger U.S.-Argentina relations under Trump’s presidency. At the Davos World Economic Forum, Milei hinted at leaving the Mercosur trade bloc if it means securing a new trade deal with the U.S., highlighting shifting alliances in response to Trump’s policies.

EUROPEAN Allies RALLY to Defend Ukraine as Trump Era Looms

12 November 2024 — London, Paris, and Warsaw are forming a core group to support Ukraine against Russia, anticipating changes in U.S. policy under a possible Trump presidency. Donald Trump hasn’t detailed his plans for ending the conflict but has mentioned options like land swaps or demilitarized zones. These strategies clash with Ukraine’s goal of total victory over Russia.

British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer met French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris to discuss defense matters and support for Ukraine. They want outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden to allow Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles against Russia before any Trump policy shift. The U.S., however, worries this could escalate tensions with Moscow significantly.

A UK government source stressed the urgency of maximizing efforts before Trump’s potential presidency begins on January 20th. Starmer and Macron aim to strengthen Ukraine’s position as winter nears and after Trump’s re-election announcement days ago, despite financial challenges faced by both the UK and France amid budgetary issues.

Poland, led by Prime Minister Donald Tusks, is also increasing its role in this emerging anti-Trump alliance within Europe. Meetings between Polish leaders and European counterparts are planned to involve NATO members from Scandinavia as well.

SECURITY FAILURES at Trump Rally Spark Outrage

24 July 2024 — Two local law enforcement officers left their post to search for a suspicious man before the shooting at former President Donald Trump’s rally. This decision raises questions about whether a key position was left unattended as the shooter climbed onto a roof.

Pennsylvania State Police Col. Christopher Paris testified that the officers were stationed at a second-floor window with a clear view of the roof where Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire. Paris admitted uncertainty about whether staying at their post would have allowed them to see Crooks climbing onto the adjacent building’s roof.

The testimony before the House Homeland Security Committee sheds light on security preparations for Trump’s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, but also highlights potential lapses in law enforcement decisions. The Butler County District Attorney and Secret Service have not responded to requests for comments on who ordered the officers to leave their post.

The incident has sparked growing concerns over multiple security failures that enabled Crooks to fire eight shots into the crowd, resulting in one death and two injuries. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle resigned after being criticized by lawmakers for what she called the agency’s “most significant operational failure” in decades.

NATO SUMMIT In DC: Biden’s RE-Election Doubts Shake Ukraine Support

09 July 2024 — World leaders are heading to Washington, D.C., this week for a historic NATO summit as uncertainty rises over continued U.S. support for Ukraine. The summit marks the 75th anniversary of the alliance’s founding and comes amid skepticism about President Biden’s re-election chances and their impact on Ukraine’s war with Russia.

Key issues on the agenda include Ukraine’s success in its war with Russia, its future within NATO, and how the alliance plans to bolster collective defense. The U.S. has been a major supporter of Ukraine, providing significant aid, sparking debate over whether this level of support can continue under a different presidency.

Former President Donald Trump has not clarified what U.S. involvement with NATO would look like if he wins a second term, leaving questions about future American support for the alliance and Ukraine unanswered. Experts believe Trump is unlikely to pull out of NATO altogether but note that the alliance is taking steps to safeguard its support for Ukraine should Washington reduce its involvement.

PUTIN’S POWER Play: Announces Candidacy Amidst Turmoil, Aiming to Cement His Iron Grip on Russia

08 December 2023 — Vladimir Putin has announced his intention to run in the upcoming presidential election in March. This move is seen as an attempt to prolong his authoritarian rule over Russia. Despite instigating a costly war in Ukraine and enduring internal conflicts, including an attack on the Kremlin itself, Putin’s support remains unshaken after nearly 24 years at the helm.

In June, a rebellion led by mercenary leader Yevgeny Prigozhin stirred up rumors of Putin’s control waning. However, Prigozhin’s death in a suspicious plane crash two months later only served to reinforce the image of Putin’s absolute authority.

Putin made his decision public following a Kremlin award ceremony where war veterans and others encouraged him to seek reelection. Tatiana Stanovaya from the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center pointed out that this understated announcement is likely part of the Kremlin’s strategy to emphasize Putin’s humility and commitment rather than making loud campaign declarations.