Former President Donald Trump has warned Russia of imposing significant tariffs on its oil exports if President Vladimir Putin continues to obstruct efforts to reach a peace agreement with Ukraine and end the ongoing conflict.
During a phone interview with *Meet the Press* host Kristin Welker on Sunday, Trump declared that if he determines Russia is responsible for the stalled negotiations—though he acknowledged it "might not be"—he would enforce strict economic penalties.
"If Russia and I can't reach a deal to stop the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I believe Russia is at fault—which it may not be—but if I conclude it is, I will impose secondary tariffs on all Russian oil exports," Trump stated. "Anyone buying oil from Russia won’t be allowed to do business in the United States. There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, possibly even up to 50%."
Trump expressed frustration over Putin’s recent remarks suggesting that Ukraine should install a transitional government as part of any peace deal—a move that would effectively remove President Volodymyr Zelensky from power. The former U.S. president called these comments counterproductive to peace efforts, saying they were "not going in the right location" for negotiations.
He further warned that if a ceasefire agreement is not reached soon, he would expand the tariffs to include "other products sold in the U.S." and impose "secondary tariffs" on Russian goods within a month.
Despite his anger, Trump emphasized his historically "very good relationship" with Putin, noting that "anger dissipates quickly... if he does the right thing." He revealed that the two leaders are scheduled to speak again this week to discuss the ongoing crisis.
Trump’s remarks underscore his hardline stance on Russia’s role in the Ukraine war while leaving room for diplomatic resolution—a balance he has maintained throughout the conflict. His threat of economic retaliation signals a potential escalation in pressure should Putin refuse to cooperate in brokering peace.
Comments
Post a Comment