President Donald Trump is turning up the pressure on Russia and Ukraine, warning that if both sides fail to negotiate an end to the war, Moscow will face new economic penalties. His warning comes amid escalating conflict and growing fears of a broader global crisis.
Trump issued his latest statement on Truth Social, saying he is considering major financial restrictions on Russia. “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 posted.
The push for negotiations follows Trump’s tense meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who was reportedly dismissed from the White House after clashing with Trump over continued U.S. support. Trump has made it clear that he expects Ukraine to engage in talks rather than rely on indefinite military aid.
"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. To Russia and Ukraine,… pic.twitter.com/kwrfbaQw4d
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 7, 2025
At the same time, Trump’s administration is preparing for diplomatic talks, with officials scheduled to meet Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia next week. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that the discussions will focus on securing a cease-fire.
If Trump moves forward with new sanctions, they could go beyond existing restrictions, cutting off Russian banks from international financial markets and targeting foreign companies that continue doing business with Moscow. A strategy similar to past sanctions on Iran could deliver a major economic blow.
As the war rages on, Trump is making it clear that both sides must come to an agreement — before the U.S. forces Moscow’s hand through economic measures.
