Over the weekend, Trump turned his attention to the ongoing war in Ukraine, sharply criticizing Russian President Vladimir Putin for the continued assault on Ukrainian cities.
“Putin has gone absolutely crazy,” Trump posted on social media. “I’m not happy with what Putin’s doing. He’s killing a lot of people. We’re in the middle of talking, and he’s shooting rockets into Kyiv and other cities. I don’t like it at all.”
Trump’s comments follow a deadly Russian drone barrage over the weekend and a high-profile prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine. While condemning Putin, Trump also directed criticism at Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, accusing him of using rhetoric that, quote, “causes problems.”
Delay in European Union Tariffs
In trade news, Trump announced a postponement of the 50% tariff on goods imported from the European Union. Initially set to take effect on June 1, the tariffs will now be delayed until July 9.
The president’s decision came after a discussion with the president of the European Commission, who requested an extension to allow time for “serious negotiation.” Trump’s willingness to delay the tariffs marks a temporary reprieve in his administration’s aggressive trade policies.
Congressional Budget Debate
Meanwhile, divisions among congressional Republicans have emerged over a House-passed budget package, which Trump has praised as “one big, beautiful bill.”
“What this bill is going to do is be jet-fuel for the U.S. economy,” Trump said, emphasizing its economic potential. However, some Republican lawmakers expressed concerns about the proposal’s impact on the national deficit.
The president encouraged the Senate to make adjustments to the bill, stating, “I believe they’ll get there.” The package’s fate now hinges on Senate negotiations.
As the nation observes Memorial Day, Trump’s remarks and policy shifts highlight the complex intersection of international conflict, domestic politics, and economic strategy.