US President Donald Trump has issued a stern warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, urging him to bring an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine or risk facing harsh economic measures, including high tariffs and additional sanctions. Trump made the statement on Truth Social, a social media platform he owns, on Wednesday, calling the war “ridiculous” and stressing the need for a peaceful resolution.
Trump Calls for a Swift End to the War
In his post, Trump criticised the ongoing conflict, stating that the war “never would have started” if he were still in office. He made it clear that he wanted the war to end as soon as possible, insisting that both sides should negotiate a ceasefire to avoid further loss of life.
“Let’s get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with!” Trump said, emphasizing that the “easy way” to settle the war is always better than the “hard way.” He urged Putin to settle the war diplomatically and reiterated that “no more lives should be lost.”
Trump also reflected on his past relationship with Putin, stating that he had always maintained a good rapport with the Russian leader. He expressed affection for the Russian people, recalling Russia’s role in helping the Allies win World War II, with significant sacrifices. Despite past controversies surrounding Russian interference in the 2016 US election, Trump pointed out that he had a longstanding positive relationship with Putin.
“I love the Russian people, and always had a very good relationship with President Putin – and this despite the Radical Left’s Russia, Russia, Russia HOAX,” Trump added.
High Tariffs and Sanctions Loom if No Deal is Reached
Trump warned that if Russia does not negotiate a ceasefire soon, he would have no choice but to impose tariffs, taxes, and sanctions on Russian goods sold to the United States and other participating countries. He described Russia’s economy as failing and stressed that imposing such measures would ultimately hurt President Putin.
“I’m going to do Russia, whose economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOUR. Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous war! It’s only going to get worse,” Trump said, signalling his intention to put significant economic pressure on Russia if talks are not initiated.
Biden Administration’s Sanctions on Russia
The Biden administration has already imposed multiple rounds of sanctions on Russian sectors, including oil and energy, in an attempt to choke off funds used to sustain the war. However, Trump’s message differs in its urgency, calling for an immediate resolution and offering the Russian president a chance to avoid further economic damage by negotiating a peace deal.
Trump’s Continued Push for Ceasefire Negotiations
Trump has consistently advocated for a ceasefire and negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. He has repeatedly claimed that if he were president, he could end the war within a day. He has also stated that Putin would not have invaded Ukraine had he been in office.
On Tuesday, Trump reaffirmed his willingness to meet Putin at any time to discuss a peace deal. However, he made it clear that he would impose sanctions on Russia if there is no progress on negotiations.
“It sounds likely,” Trump said when asked if the US would impose more sanctions on Russia if Putin refuses to come to the table. “I’d like to see that end. Millions of people are being killed. It’s a vicious situation.”
Zelensky’s Desire for Peace
Trump also mentioned his conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who, according to Trump, expressed a strong desire for peace. However, Trump acknowledged that peace requires cooperation from both sides, calling it a “two to tango” situation.
Zelensky’s strong support for peace negotiations is in line with Trump’s call for a diplomatic resolution, with both leaders hoping for an end to the suffering caused by the war.
In summary, Trump’s remarks highlight his ongoing commitment to bringing an end to the Ukraine war and his willingness to exert economic pressure on Russia if diplomatic efforts fail. His call for peace underscores his focus on resolving the conflict and preventing further loss of life.
(With Reuters inputs)