Trump’s Putin-tilted peace push sparks backlash

CNN’s April 24, 2025 live coverage tracked developments in the Trump presidency: • Russia-Ukraine: Trump claimed Putin offered a “big concession” in peace talks by not seeking “the whole country,” alarming allies, while condemning deadly Russian strikes on Kyiv. Russia’s Sergey Lavrov said talks with the US are progressing; Trump envoy Steve Witkoff is heading to Moscow. • Trade: Trump expressed frustration with China amid an ongoing trade war; the US says talks occurred, while China denies direct negotiations. Mitch McConnell warned tariffs carry high taxpayer costs and suggested Trump isn’t getting full advice. • Legal setbacks: A judge blocked parts of Trump’s order requiring proof of citizenship to register to vote. Another judge said a policy threatening to pull federal funds from schools with DEI and race-related programs is likely unconstitutional. • Domestic politics: Town halls grew heated. Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez faced backlash, notably over her vote for the GOP SAVE Act on voter citizenship proof. Republican Ashley Hinson fielded criticism over congressional oversight of Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s conduct. • Federal workforce: Trump signed an executive order reshaping probationary rules for federal employees, expanding agency discretion and requiring pre–probation-end performance reviews. • Clemency: Trump pardoned former Las Vegas councilwoman Michele Fiore, convicted of wire fraud tied to a police memorial fund.

Former national security adviser John Bolton told CNN’s Kaitlan Collins that Donald Trump’s stance isn’t broadly pro-Russia but personally favorable toward Vladimir Putin. Bolton warned that Trump’s approach would carry significant consequences for U.S. policy on Russia, implying it could embolden Putin and undermine American interests.

After Ukraine, the US, UK, France, and Germany met in London to discuss potential peace talks, Russia launched its deadliest strike on Kyiv since last summer. CNN’s Nic Robertson outlines the attack and details from the London discussions, highlighting the stark contrast between diplomatic efforts and escalating violence.

Former President Trump said he’s “very” optimistic Ukraine and Russia could reach a deal soon, despite the White House signaling it might abandon peace efforts without a ceasefire. Experts remain skeptical, arguing Vladimir Putin has no interest in stopping the war and aims to continue until Ukraine capitulates. The administration hasn’t clarified potential consequences for Russia or whether U.S. aid to Ukraine would continue, as Trump has restricted some military support, including Patriot missile sales. Former intelligence officials warn that sustained U.S. backing for Ukraine is in America’s strategic interest to deter aggression and weaken Putin’s partnerships with Iran, North Korea, and China. Kremlin spokesmen cautioned against rushing a settlement, reinforcing assessments that Putin seeks leverage and a war of attrition rather than a quick peace.