Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley of Iowa criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for manipulating America during ceasefire negotiations with Ukraine. Grassley called on President Donald Trump to impose strong sanctions.
"I'VE SEEN ENOUGH KILLING OF INNOCENT UKRAINIAN women + children," Grassley wrote on social media, urging Trump to take action against Putin. "You ought to see from clear evidence that he is playing America as a patsy."
Nikki Haley, former Republican presidential candidate and UN Ambassador, echoed Grassley's sentiment by retweeting him and adding "Amen!"
Trump has been advocating for an end to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, expressing rare frustration with Putin after recent attacks on Kyiv that resulted in casualties.
Grassley, who has been vocal in his criticism of Putin, has also emphasized the importance of a peace deal with Ukraine.
During a town hall in Northwood, Iowa, a constituent asked Grassley about the situation in Ukraine and the appropriate U.S. response. Grassley suggested imposing more sanctions on Russia and providing support such as Patriot missiles to Ukraine for self-defense.
Contributions to this report were made by Des Moines Register reporter Sabine Martin and USA TODAY.
Brianne Pfannenstiel is the chief politics reporter for the Des Moines Register. Contact her at bpfann@dmreg.com or 515-284-8244. Follow her on social media at @brianneDMR.