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President Donald Trump reportedly told Russian President Vladimir Putin that he would bomb Moscow if Russia invaded Ukraine. The comments were made during private fundraising events in 2024 and have now surfaced through secret audio recordings featured in the new book 2024, according to CNN.
In the recording, President Trump is heard saying, “With Putin, I said: ‘If you go into Ukraine, I’m going to bomb the sh*t out of Moscow. I’m telling you, I have no choice.’” He added that Putin didn’t fully believe him, but “believed me 10%.”
The comment has raised eyebrows, as Russia had already invaded Ukraine in February 2022. By the time Trump made this remark, the war had been ongoing for over two years. It’s unclear why he made the statement or what effect it had, if any.
Trump is known for using bold and sometimes extreme language, especially at rallies or private events. Since returning to the White House in January 2025, he has occasionally issued strong warnings to Russia, including threats of tougher sanctions. However, critics say he has often failed to follow through.
The recordings also include Trump claiming that he warned Chinese President Xi Jinping he would bomb Beijing if China invaded Taiwan. “He thought I was crazy,” Trump said, describing Xi’s reaction.
Another part of the leaked audio is drawing attention for domestic reasons. In the same events, Trump said he would deport students who protest in support of Palestine on U.S. college campuses. “One thing I’d do is any student that protests, I would throw them out of the country,” Trump said. “Those people made a big mistake. Throw them out, and I think that will stop it.”
These remarks have sparked backlash from civil rights groups and universities. Critics say deporting students for expressing political views violates the American principles of free speech and academic freedom. Some foreign students have reportedly been detained by officers without clear identification and transported to far-off detention centers.
Universities and advocacy organizations argue that punishing peaceful protest sets a dangerous precedent and undermines the country’s tradition of open dialogue.
The book 2024, written by a team of investigative journalists, includes the newly uncovered recordings and sheds light on Trump’s approach to global leaders and political dissent at home. The authors say the tapes provide rare insight into how the president views his power and the way he uses threats to project strength.
Supporters of Trump may see his comments as strong and decisive leadership. But many opponents argue the remarks are reckless and damaging—both to international diplomacy and to the rights of individuals in the U.S.
As the recordings continue to make headlines, they are likely to spark more debate about President Trump’s leadership style and his handling of both foreign policy and civil liberties.