Russia Says Trump Comments Stoke Further Violence in Ukraine

Russia’s Foreign Ministry said comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump signal an intention to prolong the violence in Ukraine. The ministry’s spokeswoman described Trump’s remarks as an encouragement to “continue the slaughter” in the conflict. She added that Moscow would “take all necessary steps to protect our country” and warned that Russia “does not accept threats.” While noting that achieving Russia’s objectives in Ukraine is becoming more difficult, the spokeswoman asserted that current conditions only reinforce the Kremlin’s determination to pursue those goals.