President Donald Trump is turning up the heat on Russia and Ukraine, threatening harsh economic penalties against Moscow if the two nations fail to reach a cease-fire agreement. His latest move intensifies pressure on both sides as concerns grow that the war could expand into a larger global crisis.
Trump issued the warning in a statement on Truth Social, making it clear that he is willing to implement sweeping financial restrictions if necessary. “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.
He also called on both nations to act immediately, writing, “To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late.”
"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
Tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have already escalated, following a heated exchange at the White House last week that ended with Zelensky being asked to leave. Trump has since taken a firmer stance, moving away from direct military aid and instead applying economic leverage.
In the coming days, White House officials will meet with Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia to discuss possible cease-fire arrangements. Trump’s team is reportedly exploring strategies to enforce economic penalties on Russia that could target foreign entities still engaging with Moscow.
With the war continuing to escalate, Trump is making it clear that both Russia and Ukraine must reach an agreement — before economic measures force their hand.
