Emre Yumlu 
U.S. President Donald Trump has begun to question his long-standing close relationship with Vladimir Putin. His recent harsh statements indicate that new sanctions against Russia may be on the agenda. However, as often seen in Trump’s foreign policy, uncertainty and inconsistency are once again at play.
Trump: “Putin Has Gone Crazy”
In his latest post on Truth Social, Trump used the following words for the Russian leader:
“Putin has gone absolutely CRAZY! I’ve always said he wanted all of Ukraine. If he goes through with it, it will be the downfall of Russia!”
These strong remarks suggest that Trump may be starting to abandon his admiration for Putin. Yet it remains unclear whether this shift will actually result in a real sanctions process.
Sanctions on the Table, But Indecision Continues
According to The Wall Street Journal, the Trump administration is considering new sanctions this week due to the intensifying attacks in Ukraine and the failure of peace negotiations. However, these sanctions are expected to be more diplomatic than economic. One proposed measure is to pressure Putin into accepting a 30-day ceasefire, though Russia has repeatedly rejected the offer.
On Sunday, Trump confirmed that “sanctions are being seriously considered.” He also made the following statement about Putin:
“I’ve known him for a long time, we used to get along well. But now he’s sending rockets into cities and killing people. I don’t like it.”
From Admiration to Criticism: A Changing Attitude
Back in February 2022, as Russia amassed thousands of troops on Ukraine’s border, Trump had called Putin’s tactics “genius.” He described the recognition of eastern Ukrainian regions as independent and plans to “keep the peace” as a “smart move.”
In a radio interview from the same period, he said, “Putin wants Ukraine, but I told him ‘You can’t do it.’ I liked him, and he liked me,” emphasizing the close ties they once shared.
However, now the President is using a much more critical tone against Putin and has even mentioned the possibility of pulling out of the peace process altogether.
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