US President Donald Trump has threatened Russia with severe economic sanctions if it doesn't agree to a peace deal with Ukraine. Trump stated that if President Vladimir Putin does not agree to a ceasefire, he will resort to sanctions and tariffs to exert economic pressure on Russia. This statement is part of Trump's strategy to leverage economic pressure to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.
During a conversation with journalists at the White House on Tuesday, Trump stated, 'We want to end the war. We're discussing economic sanctions because we want to avoid global conflict. If I think an agreement is not happening, I might impose sanctions and tariffs.' Targeting Russia's oil exports, he has already placed additional tariffs on countries like India that purchase oil from Russia.
Trump Threatens Secondary Tariffs
Donald Trump also indicated that if Russia shows no progress in peace talks over the next few weeks, he could take stricter measures, including secondary tariffs on Russia's trading partners. Despite Trump's warnings, Russia has continued its military actions in Ukraine. The Russian economy, heavily reliant on oil revenue, is already under pressure from high-interest rates and declining global oil prices.
Experts note that Russia has managed to withstand Western sanctions by adopting a wartime economy, but new sanctions could significantly heighten economic challenges. Trump clarified that while he prioritizes peace talks, he will not hesitate to take stringent actions if Russia fails to take concrete steps. This policy could impact global diplomacy and trade, particularly with countries like India and China, who are major trading partners of Russia.
Russia initiated its assault on Ukraine, resulting in thousands of Ukrainian civilian casualties. Analysts estimate over a million soldiers on both sides have been killed or injured in this ongoing conflict. Both nations have targeted each other's nuclear power plants. Meanwhile, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of delaying peace talks.
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Russia reiterated its demand for Ukraine to cede control over two eastern regions it occupies. It proposed stabilizing its forces in two southern regions while suggesting the return of some smaller areas under Ukrainian control. However, President Zelensky rejected Russia's offer, asserting Ukraine will not cede any territory.
