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U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he is “strongly considering” imposing large-scale economic sanctions and tariffs on Russia, citing the country’s intensified military offensive in Ukraine.
Taking to Truth Social, Trump pointed to Russia’s aggressive advances on the battlefield, stressing the need for immediate peace negotiations.
“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,” he wrote.
Trump Urges Russia and Ukraine to Negotiate
Trump also issued a direct appeal to both Moscow and Kyiv, calling for an urgent resolution before the situation worsens.
“To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!” he added.
A Surprising Shift in Trump’s Stance?
The statement marks a notable shift in Trump’s rhetoric, as he has previously criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the conflict while offering mixed messages on US support for Ukraine. Now, his call for economic pressure on Russia suggests he is open to using financial leverage to achieve peace.
Uncertainty Over Policy Implementation
It remains unclear how Trump’s proposed sanctions would be enforced or whether they align with the Republican stance on Ukraine. However, the remarks have reignited the debate over Washington’s role in ending the war and whether economic constraints could force Russia to the negotiating table.
Russia Strikes Ukraine’s Energy Grid in Massive Assault
Just hours before Trump’s statement, Russia launched a large-scale missile and drone assault on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, in one of the most intense attacks in recent weeks. Ukrainian officials confirmed that the assault injured at least 10 people, including a child.
Ukraine’s Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko condemned the attack, stating, “Russia is trying to hurt ordinary Ukrainians by striking energy and gas production facilities, without abandoning its goal of leaving us without light and heat, and causing the greatest harm to ordinary citizens.”
Ukraine’s Energy System Faces Severe Strain
Moscow has repeatedly targeted Ukraine’s power grid, aiming to weaken electricity generation and heating supplies. Ukrainian officials accused Russia of “weaponizing winter” to lower civilian morale.
Reports indicate that Russia fired 67 missiles and deployed 194 drones, with Ukraine’s air defense systems intercepting 34 missiles and 100 drones while others were disrupted using electronic warfare measures.
Zelensky Pushes for Peace Talks Amid Escalating Conflict
As the war drags into its third year, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet US officials to discuss strategies for ending the war. Zelensky has also gained support from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who has backed efforts for a ceasefire and an end to energy infrastructure attacks.
“We support the idea of an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of attacks in the air and at sea as a confidence-building measure between the parties,” Erdogan stated in a video call with European leaders.
Zelensky has also expressed his willingness to collaborate under Trump’s leadership should he return to power, stating he is “ready to work under US President Donald Trump’s strong leadership” to secure a lasting peace.
Russia Justifies Energy Strikes
While Ukraine has denounced the attacks, the Kremlin defended its actions, claiming that targeting energy facilities is a legitimate military strategy.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, “The energy supply is a legitimate target in the war because it’s linked with Ukraine’s military industrial complex and weapons production.”
Ukraine Deploys French Mirage-2000 Fighter Jets for First Time
In response to the intensified Russian attacks, Ukraine deployed French Mirage-2000 warplanes for the first time, alongside Western-supplied F-16 fighter jets. This marks a significant step in Ukraine’s defense strategy, though future US military aid remains uncertain under Trump’s approach.
Zelensky to Meet Saudi and US Officials for Diplomatic Talks
Zelensky will also travel to Saudi Arabia to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for discussions on potential diplomatic solutions. Additionally, his delegation will engage with US officials for further talks on security and economic assistance.
Meanwhile, Zelensky welcomed the European Union’s new defense spending initiatives, expressing hope that some of the funding could be directed toward strengthening Ukraine’s own defense industry.
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