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Former U.S. President Donald Trump has stirred controversy by advising Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky against targeting Moscow with strikes. This unexpected comment, delivered amidst Trump’s continued push for a swift resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, has prompted significant debate and raised questions about his proposed peace strategy.

During a recent discussion, Trump stated that Zelensky should refrain from bombing the Russian capital, arguing that such actions would only escalate the situation and hinder potential negotiations. He emphasized the importance of finding a peaceful solution and cautioned against actions that could be perceived as provocative.

“You don’t want to bomb Moscow,” Trump reportedly said. “That’s a very, very big mistake.” This statement represents a marked departure from previous U.S. policy, which has generally supported Ukraine’s right to defend itself against Russian aggression, including targeting military assets within Russia.

The Shift in Strategy & Potential Implications

Trump's call for restraint comes as he continues to advocate for a negotiated settlement to the war. He has repeatedly expressed his belief that he could broker a deal between Ukraine and Russia, claiming he knows both leaders “very well.” However, his suggestions regarding the scope of military action have been met with skepticism from both sides.

Critics argue that restricting Ukraine's ability to strike targets within Russia would significantly weaken its defensive capabilities and embolden Moscow to continue its offensive operations. They contend that Ukraine has a legitimate right to defend its territory and disrupt Russian supply lines, even if it means targeting locations within Russia.

Supporters of Trump's approach, on the other hand, believe that de-escalation is crucial for achieving a lasting peace. They argue that strikes on Moscow would be seen as an act of war by Russia, potentially leading to a wider conflict and further endangering Ukraine.

Reactions from Kyiv and Moscow

The Ukrainian government has yet to formally respond to Trump's comments, but sources suggest that Zelensky’s administration views the suggestion with caution. Ukrainian officials have consistently maintained that they will defend their country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, regardless of the risks.

Meanwhile, the Kremlin has welcomed Trump's remarks, with officials suggesting that they reflect a more realistic understanding of the situation. However, they have also reiterated their demands for Ukraine to cede territory and accept Russian control over certain regions.

The Broader Context of the War

The war in Ukraine has been ongoing since February 2022, resulting in widespread destruction, displacement, and human suffering. Despite numerous attempts at negotiations, a lasting peace agreement remains elusive. The conflict has also had significant global implications, impacting energy markets, food security, and international relations.

Trump’s comments add another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. Whether his proposed strategy will contribute to a peaceful resolution or further complicate the conflict remains to be seen. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, hoping for a swift and just end to the war in Ukraine.