Trump Threatens New Sanctions, Tariffs on Russia t...

Trump Threatens New Sanctions, Tariffs on Russia to Push for Peace Talks

Zim Now Writer

President Donald Trump has issued a public threat against Russia, warning of large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs to pressure Moscow into agreeing to a ceasefire and a peace deal with Ukraine. This marks a shift in his approach, as he had previously taken a softer stance on Russia while being more critical of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

According to a senior White House official, Trump’s frustration has been mounting in response to Russia’s continued aggression toward Ukraine. Despite his push for a ceasefire, Russia has escalated its strikes, prompting the president to take a harder line.

Earlier this week, Trump decided to suspend weapons shipments and intelligence sharing with Ukraine, a move aimed at pressuring both sides into negotiations. His strategy appears to have influenced Ukraine, as Zelenskyy has now expressed willingness to engage in peace talks. To further these efforts, senior U.S. and Ukrainian officials are set to meet in Saudi Arabia next week to discuss the potential ceasefire and framework for a peace settlement.

"Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely ‘pounding’ Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED. To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!"

During a press briefing at the White House, Trump reaffirmed his belief that Putin is open to a peace deal but suggested that negotiating with Ukraine has been more challenging. He also justified suspending military aid to Ukraine, stating, "I have to know that they want to settle. If they don’t want to settle, we are out of there."

Despite Trump’s warning, economic experts suggest that additional tariffs on Russia may have little impact, as U.S. imports from Russia totaled only about US$3 billion in fiscal 2024. The U.S. already enforces extensive sanctions against Russia, limiting the effectiveness of further economic measures.