WASHINGTON: Former President Donald Trump upped the ante against Russia on Wednesday, warning President Vladimir Putin to strike a peace deal over Ukraine or face harsher economic consequences.
In a fiery Truth Social post, Trump declared, “Settle this war now, or I’ll impose sky-high tariffs, taxes, and sanctions on all Russian exports to the U.S. and allied nations.”
Despite claiming no ill will towards Russia, Trump urged Putin to “stop this absurd war,” calling it a favor to Russia’s floundering economy. “This conflict would never have started under my watch. Let’s make a deal—the easy way, not the hard way,” he added.
Trump, known for his deal-making prowess, hinted at tightening the economic screws further than President Joe Biden’s administration, which already crippled Moscow’s energy sector.
Trade between the two nations has shrunk dramatically, with U.S. imports from Russia plummeting to $2.9 billion in 2024 from $4.3 billion in 2023, according to the Commerce Department. Fertilizers and precious metals dominate this dwindling trade.
While Trump’s tone was his firmest yet towards Putin since reentering office, critics remain cautious, fearing Kyiv could be pressured into concessions. He refrained from commenting on continued U.S. military aid to Ukraine, stating only, “We’re discussing options with President Zelensky and will talk to Putin soon.”
With his reputation for tough negotiations, Trump’s ultimatum signals a high-stakes bid to end the grinding conflict and leave his mark on global diplomacy.
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