In a fiery speech delivered before a gathering of generals and admirals at Quantico, Virginia, President Donald Trump reignited his criticism of Vladimir Putin, labeling the Russian leader a "paper tiger" and voicing his exasperation over the ongoing war in Ukraine. "Between five to seven thousand soldiers die weekly. Think about that. Yet, I believe we can find a resolution. But this has been the toughest challenge. I am extremely disappointed in President Putin," Trump stated, revealing he had warned the Russian leader that the conflict made him appear weak.
The Republican further expressed his initial belief that Putin would achieve a swift victory: “I thought… I thought he would handle this. He should have wrapped it up in a week. And I told him, you know, you're not looking good. You've been waging a war for four years that should have lasted a week. Are you a paper tiger?” The lengthy 70-minute address was met with a cool reception from the military brass, who remained silent, adhering to the Pentagon's directive to stay politically neutral. A modest applause was heard at the conclusion.
Trump's Shifting Stance on Ukraine
Trump's remarks come amidst a diplomatic shift. At the United Nations General Assembly in New York last week, he explicitly supported Zelensky, stating that with the backing of Europe and NATO, Ukraine could "restore its country to its original form and even go beyond." "He's a courageous man fighting with all his might. Ukraine has a powerful spirit," Trump said at the time. Zelensky publicly thanked Trump for his change in stance, emphasizing that "territories cannot be exchanged" in the face of an invasion.
Trump justified his support by highlighting Russia's military and economic strain, describing the nation as a "rudderless power" after three and a half years of war. He also stressed that with patience and military and financial assistance, Kyiv could tip the scales.
Kremlin's Response
Moscow swiftly responded to Trump's statements. Presidential spokesperson Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump's metaphor: “Russia is not a tiger; it's a bear. And there are no paper bears.” Peskov claimed that military operations were proceeding "carefully" to minimize casualties, accusing Trump of misunderstanding the "reality on the ground," where he asserted Russian forces continue to gain ground. He also warned that time is against those who refuse to negotiate with Moscow.
The rhetorical exchange between Washington and the Kremlin highlights the growing tension surrounding Ukraine, as the EU welcomed Trump's support as a sign of Western unity.
Insights on Trump's Criticism of Putin
Why did Trump call Putin a "paper tiger"?
Trump used the term "paper tiger" to criticize Putin for the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, suggesting that the Russian leader's inability to quickly resolve the war makes him appear weak.
What was the reaction of the U.S. military to Trump's speech?
The U.S. military leaders listened in silence, following the Pentagon's guidance to maintain political neutrality, offering only a modest applause at the end of the speech.
How did Ukraine respond to Trump's support?
Ukrainian President Zelensky expressed gratitude for Trump's backing, emphasizing the importance of not exchanging territories in response to the invasion.
What was the Kremlin's response to Trump's comments?
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected Trump's metaphor, asserting Russia's military operations were advancing deliberately to reduce casualties, and criticized Trump's understanding of the conflict's reality.