President Donald Trump has signaled a possible escalation of economic pressure on Russia in response to its recent heavy bombardment of Ukraine.
On Friday, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to announce his consideration of large-scale banking sanctions, additional trade penalties, and tariffs aimed at Moscow.
His message was clear: unless Russia agrees to a ceasefire and negotiates a final peace settlement, the United States could impose stringent economic measures.
“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,” Trump wrote.
He urged both Russia and Ukraine to come to the negotiating table immediately, warning that delays could have dire consequences.
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This latest statement marks a notable shift from Trump’s recent approach to the Ukraine conflict. Earlier, his administration had suspended military aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv, citing a desire to encourage diplomatic resolutions.
However, Russia’s recent missile and drone strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure appear to have prompted a tougher stance.
Trump’s decision to temporarily halt military assistance had sparked intense backlash, particularly after his February 28 meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House.
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During the televised encounter, Trump and Vice President JD Vance criticized Zelensky, accusing him of showing insufficient gratitude for the billions of dollars in military aid provided by the U.S.
The president’s recent rhetoric on Ukraine has drawn mixed reactions from both domestic and international audiences. Critics argue that Trump’s initial hesitation in supporting Kyiv emboldened Moscow, while his latest sanctions threat may indicate an attempt to balance his approach.
Notably, the United States recently voted alongside Russia at the United Nations, opposing resolutions backed by European allies that emphasized Ukraine’s territorial integrity.
Additionally, last month, Trump held a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, a move seen by many as an initial step toward restoring U.S.-Russia relations and potentially rolling back the broad sanctions imposed during Joe Biden’s presidency.
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