US President Donald Trump said Friday that he is “strongly considering” imposing large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and peace agreement is reached with Ukraine.
“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,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
He also urged both countries to begin negotiations immediately, warning, “Get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!”
Is Trump soft on Russia?
Trump has faced criticism over his approach to negotiations with Russia and Ukraine, with opponents accusing him of being lenient toward Putin.
He has repeatedly and falsely claimed that Ukraine initiated the conflict.
Critics have noted a shift in US foreign policy under President Donald Trump, with the administration said to be taking a more conciliatory approach toward Russia while pressuring Ukraine to negotiate an end to the war.
This marks a departure from the previous Biden administration, which was more supportive of Ukraine and critical of Russia.
Hours before Trump’s statement, Russia launched a large-scale attack on Ukraine, deploying 261 missiles and drones targeting energy and gas infrastructure, according to Ukrainian officials.
The Trump administration also halted military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine this week, following a heated Oval Office exchange last week between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Trump, and Vice President JD Vance.
Tense Oval Office meeting with Zelenskyy
Trump’s remarks come just days after a tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.
The encounter, which shifted between polite exchanges and heated discussions, highlighted growing friction between the two leaders over the direction of the war and US involvement.
Zelenskyy sought to secure continued US support as Ukraine struggles against Russian forces, but Trump reiterated his push for a swift resolution, emphasizing his belief that prolonged conflict is unsustainable.
He has repeatedly questioned the level of US aid to Kyiv and suggested that a ceasefire was necessary to prevent further escalation.
During the meeting, Trump reportedly expressed skepticism about Zelenskyy’s stance, arguing that Ukraine must be more open to negotiations.
He also warned that continued fighting could increase the risk of broader conflict. “You’re gambling with World War III,” he told the Ukrainian leader, pressing him on why he was resisting a ceasefire.
The exchange occurred during a meeting where both leaders were signing an agreement that would allow the US to access future revenue from Ukraine’s natural resources.
Recent reports from earlier this week suggest that the deal may eventually get signed.
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