Trump Threatens High Tariffs and Sanctions on Russia Over Ukraine War
President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Russia, threatening severe economic sanctions and high tariffs if President Vladimir Putin does not take steps to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Writing on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump framed his push for a resolution as a “very big favour” to Russia and its leader, but one contingent on immediate action to halt hostilities.
Trump, who has consistently claimed he could negotiate an end to the conflict within a single day, stated: “Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE.”
He added that failure to reach a settlement would leave him no choice but to impose stringent tariffs, taxes, and sanctions on Russian goods entering the United States and other allied nations.
The Kremlin has not yet formally responded to Trump’s remarks, but Russian officials in recent days have indicated an openness to engaging with the next US administration.
Putin has repeatedly expressed willingness to negotiate, provided Ukraine accepts Russia’s territorial gains, which currently encompass approximately 20% of Ukraine’s land.
Additionally, Putin maintains his opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has remained resolute in rejecting any permanent cession of Ukrainian territory, although he has acknowledged the possibility of temporarily relinquishing control of some occupied regions.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum on Tuesday, Zelensky underscored the necessity of US involvement in any potential peacekeeping mission, arguing that American troops would serve as a crucial deterrent against Russian aggression.
Trump’s comments have sparked mixed reactions both domestically and internationally.
In his Truth Social post, Trump couched his threats with gestures of admiration for the Russian people, even referencing Soviet sacrifices during World War Two – although he overestimated casualty figures and overlooked the contributions of other Soviet nations, including Ukraine.
This latest rhetoric appears to mark a shift for Trump, who in the past has expressed understanding for Russia’s security concerns over NATO expansion, a stance that has drawn criticism in Kyiv.
Despite Trump’s tough talk, many Ukrainians remain wary.
After more than a decade of conflict with Russia and a history of failed peace agreements, expectations for a rapid resolution are low.
Analysts argue that Trump’s ability to influence the war’s trajectory will depend on more than rhetoric, particularly as Russian imports to the US have already plummeted due to existing sanctions.
The path to peace remains fraught with challenges, but as Ukraine and its allies grapple with the cost of war, Trump’s remarks underscore the high stakes of any future negotiations.
