British satirical magazine Private Eye has once again targeted former U.S. President Donald Trump with a biting front page that’s gone viral, this time mocking his failed efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine war and his continued praise of Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The cover headline, “Russia Demands To Keep Captured Territory,” is accompanied by a photo of Putin with a speech bubble saying, “Including the White House.” The message wasn’t subtle — and neither was the reaction.
Here’s what Private Eye says:
“Russia Demands To Keep Captured Territory.”
Putin (in speech bubble): “Including the White House.”
Russia demands to keep captured territory
The new Private Eye is out now pic.twitter.com/L4M4VAunlC
— Private Eye Magazine (@PrivateEyeNews) March 19, 2025
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Trump’s Empty Ukraine Promise Comes Back to Haunt Him
During his 2024 campaign, Trump repeatedly promised that if reelected, he would end the war in Ukraine “on day one.” He boasted that only he could broker peace, citing his past relationships with Zelenskyy and Putin. But now that he’s back in office, that promise remains unfulfilled.
Not only has the war continued, but Trump has also adopted a controversial narrative that Ukraine bears partial responsibility for its own invasion. In a recent speech, he called Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a “dictator,” accusing him of corruption and silencing political opposition. These claims mirror common Kremlin talking points and have drawn outrage from both sides of the aisle.
Critics argue that Trump’s comments undermine U.S. foreign policy and send a dangerous message to authoritarian regimes. By framing Ukraine as the provocateur and Russia as misunderstood, Trump has distanced himself from NATO allies and weakened bipartisan support for continued aid to Kyiv.
Social Media Reacts to Private Eye’s Punch
The Private Eye cover quickly circulated online, striking a chord with Trump’s foreign policy critics. It was praised for its bold humor and sobering message.
Here’s what some users are saying:
Perfect, especially in view of the most recent developments!
— susannah tarbush (@starbie99) March 19, 2025
Sums it all up.
— Colin Boylett @baggiesman.bsky.social (@baggiesman.bsky.social) March 20, 2025 at 5:48 PM
Amusing and depressing at the same time but has an ironic truth about it.
— stvetype.bsky.social (@stvetype.bsky.social) March 20, 2025 at 6:43 AM
This is one of the greatest covers in ages. Superb.
— CW Gas (@cw_gas76) March 19, 2025
Critics Say Trump Is Doing Putin’s Bidding
The controversy over Trump’s stance on Ukraine isn’t new but has intensified recently. His threats to withhold U.S. military aid to Ukraine unless European allies “pay up” have added to the perception that he’s soft on Putin. He’s also repeatedly downplayed Russian aggression, refused to acknowledge war crimes, and claimed that the U.S. shouldn’t be the “world’s police.”
Former diplomats and military officials have warned that Trump’s posture emboldens Putin and alienates allies. His critics argue that his approach destabilizes global alliances and compromises the U.S.’s moral authority on the world stage.
In contrast, President Zelenskyy has maintained strong international backing, especially from European leaders. Trump’s decision to frame him as a dictator while offering praise for Putin has confused many observers, especially given Putin’s record of political assassinations, press crackdowns, and territorial invasions.
Satire With a Sting
Private Eye’s viral cover is far from the first time the magazine has skewered Trump, but its timing and message make this one especially resonant. It captures the growing anxiety over Trump’s foreign policy instincts and raises uncomfortable questions about his loyalties.
As the war in Ukraine grinds on and U.S. support hangs in the balance, satire like this doesn’t just entertain — it makes a statement. And judging by the online reaction, many people think it’s a message worth paying attention to.
Featured image via YouTube screengrab
