Trump Threatens Tariffs on Russian Oil Amid Ukraine Ceasefire Delays
The Kremlin confirmed ongoing discussions between Russia and the US regarding a potential Ukraine peace settlement and bilateral relations, despite tensions. This follows US President Donald Trump’s strong reaction to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Trump expressed frustration in an NBC News interview, suggesting secondary tariffs of 25%-50% on buyers of Russian oil if progress on peace talks stalls. Later, he reiterated his disappointment with Putin but noted that progress was being made “step by step.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia remains open to dialogue with the US and continues working on bilateral relations damaged during the previous administration. While discussions on Ukraine continue, Peskov emphasized their complexity and the lack of concrete details to disclose. He also noted that a Trump-Putin call could be arranged if needed, though none was scheduled for the week.
Trump, who has positioned himself as a peacemaker, reiterated his desire to end the three-year conflict and warned of its potential to escalate into a larger war. He emphasized that he expects Putin to cooperate, adding that he would enforce tariffs if necessary.
Finland’s President Alexander Stubb, following a meeting with Trump in Florida, urged the US to set a deadline for establishing a Ukraine ceasefire to accelerate progress.
