WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that if the Kremlin does not reach a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine within 50 days, the U.S. will impose severe tariffs on countries trading with Russia.
Trump made the remarks during a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House, stating, “If no agreement is signed within 50 days, we will implement very tough tariffs. I benefit from trade in many areas, but using it to end wars is uniquely effective.”
Additionally, Trump pledged to send billions of dollars in weapons to Kyiv. He noted that NATO member countries would purchase U.S.-made weapons, such as Patriot air defense systems, and supply them to Ukraine.
Before meeting Rutte, Trump told reporters, “We will provide Patriots because they truly need them. Putin surprises many people. He talks nicely but bombs at night.”
These comments indicate a clear shift in Trump’s stance toward Russia. Previously, he claimed to have a personal relationship with Putin and could broker peace, but now he openly accuses the Kremlin of not being serious about ending the war.
Referring to Putin’s recent statements, Trump remarked, “It’s just talk, but then he fires missiles at Kyiv and kills 60 people. This must stop.”
Earlier, Trump’s close ally, Senator Lindsey Graham, stated that the Ukraine conflict had reached a critical phase, reiterating Trump’s support for Kyiv. He added, “In the coming days, a significant amount of weapons will be sent to Ukraine. Putin’s biggest mistake was trying to play Trump. Expect a major move in the coming days and weeks to bring Putin to the negotiating table.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio also mentioned that some weapons Ukraine needs are currently available with NATO’s European allies and could be sent quickly, provided that European countries buy other weapons from the U.S. in exchange.
