WASHINGTON DC: U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced deep frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating in an exclusive interview with the BBC that he is “disappointed but not done” with the Russian leader.

Asked whether he still trusts Putin, Trump said bluntly, “I trust almost nobody,” signaling strained ties between the two leaders as the war in Ukraine grinds on.

Trump’s remarks came shortly after he announced a plan to supply weapons to Ukraine and warned of harsh economic tariffs against Russia if a ceasefire isn’t reached within 50 days.

Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump added that military and economic pressure on Russia would continue until progress toward peace is made.

In a notable shift in tone, Trump reaffirmed U.S. commitment to NATO, the alliance he previously described as “obsolete.” He emphasized his support for NATO’s mutual defense obligations, following his recent meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Much of the 20-minute phone interview focused on Trump’s discontent with Putin. Trump claimed that he had believed a peace agreement over Ukraine was achievable on four separate occasions, only to be let down each time as Russia resumed its aggression.“I’m disappointed in him, but I’m not done with him,” Trump said, adding, “We’re working at it, Gary,” referring to the BBC interviewer.

Trump recounted moments when diplomatic progress appeared within reach, only for Russia to renew attacks, including bombings in Kyiv. In recent weeks, Russia has intensified its strikes on Ukrainian cities, causing a surge in civilian casualties.

The interview also marked the anniversary of the assassination attempt on Trump during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. When asked about the incident, Trump said, “I don’t like to think about if it did change me,” calling such thoughts “life-changing.”

Meanwhile, President Putin continues to claim he seeks peace, though he blames NATO, Ukraine, and the West for what he calls the “root causes” of the conflict.

The war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, has now entered a bloody and protracted phase.