US President Donald Trump voiced frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin after weeks of unsuccessful ceasefire talks in Ukraine. Speaking to NBC News, he criticized Putin for attacking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s credibility. He also threatened to impose a 50% tariff on countries buying Russian oil if Putin refused to halt the war.
Trump’s Shift in Stance on Russia
Last week, Putin suggested a UN-led government in Ukraine to oversee elections before engaging in peace talks. However, Trump’s latest remarks indicate a tougher approach. Previously, he pressured Zelensky to make concessions while maintaining a softer stance on Putin. As a result, European leaders feared he was getting too close to the Russian president.
Strong Warnings to Russia
On Sunday, Trump took a stronger position. He admitted, “I was very angry, pissed off, when… Putin started getting into Zelensky’s credibility.” He also warned, “New leadership means you’re not gonna have a deal for a long time.”
Trump stated that the Kremlin knew of his frustration but suggested that his anger would ease “if he does the right thing.” Additionally, he threatened more economic pressure if Russia did not comply. “If I think it was Russia’s fault… I am going to put secondary tariffs… on all oil coming out of Russia,” he said.
Potential Economic Consequences for Russia
Secondary tariffs would target nations continuing to trade with Russia. Trump noted that these tariffs could reach 50% on goods from countries still buying Russian oil, such as China and India. Furthermore, he gave Russia a one-month deadline to agree to a ceasefire or face economic consequences.
Zelensky Responds to Trump’s Remarks
After the interview, Zelensky accused Russia of deliberately extending the war. “Putin is playing the same game he has since 2014,” he said, referencing Russia’s annexation of Crimea. He urged the U.S., Europe, and global allies to take strong action.
Moscow’s View on Ukraine’s Leadership
Meanwhile, Trump announced plans to speak with Putin later in the week. However, Russia continues to claim that Zelensky is no longer a legitimate leader, as his term has ended. Ukraine, on the other hand, postponed elections due to martial law and war conditions. With millions displaced and many fighting on the front lines, holding a fair election remains nearly impossible.
War’s Impact and Casualty Numbers
Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and currently controls about 20% of Ukrainian territory. Reports estimate that over 100,000 Russian soldiers have died. Meanwhile, Ukraine last reported 43,000 military deaths in December 2024, though experts believe the actual number is higher.
Trump Hints at a Third Presidential Term
During the NBC interview, Trump also suggested he might seek a third term, despite constitutional restrictions. “A lot of people want me to do it,” he said. “But we have a long way to go.”
Threats Against Iran Over Nuclear Deal
Beyond the Ukraine issue, Trump issued a warning to Iran. If the country refused to negotiate a nuclear deal, he threatened military action. “It will be bombing the likes of which they have never seen before,” he declared.
Iran’s Response to U.S. Pressure
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian later responded. While he ruled out direct negotiations with the U.S., he left room for indirect talks. “We don’t avoid talks,” he said. “They must prove that they can build trust.”