Will Trump Finally See Putin for Who He Is?

In the latest chapter of Russia’s war on Ukraine, missile attacks have once again devastated cities, taken innocent lives, and reinforced the brutal reality of Vladimir Putin’s ambitions. The world watches, condemns, and debates—while Ukraine fights for survival. But amidst all this, one question lingers: Has Donald Trump finally figured out who Putin really is?

For years, Trump has spoken about Putin with a mix of admiration and strategic ambiguity. He called him “smart,” suggested he could negotiate peace in 24 hours, and often avoided directly criticizing the Russian leader. Even as evidence of war crimes mounted, his stance remained… flexible. But with each missile strike, each civilian casualty, and each new act of aggression, the truth becomes harder to ignore.

Trump, like many others, may have once viewed Putin as a strongman leader to be admired—a master of realpolitik. But the world doesn’t need admiration for dictators; it needs accountability. And as the destruction in Ukraine continues, one thing is clear: Putin isn’t playing chess. He’s playing with lives.

So, will Trump adjust his perspective? Will he recognize that Putin isn’t a leader to be negotiated with, but a threat that must be confronted? Or will the reality of war be met with more of the same vague rhetoric? History is watching. Let’s hope the lesson sinks in before more innocent lives are lost.