US President Donald Trump recently expressed his fury over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s handling of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, threatening secondary tariffs on Russian oil exports if Washington determines the blame lies with Moscow. The announcement, made during a phone call with NBC’s Kristen Welker, marked a significant escalation in rhetoric from a leader known for his unpredictable foreign policy stances.
“If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault… I am going to put secondary tariffs on all oil coming out of Russia,” Trump said, according to Welker’s reporting on her show “Meet The Press.” Trump described himself as “very angry, pissed off” over Putin’s recent comments dismissing Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy and suggesting the need for new leadership in Kyiv.
This development comes amid prolonged tensions between Washington and Moscow, with diplomatic efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine seemingly stalled. Despite Trump’s administration pushing for a swift resolution since taking office, little progress has been achieved, leaving both sides entrenched in a protracted stalemate.
Escalating Tensions Between Leaders
The personal relationship between Trump and Putin has long been a subject of speculation and scrutiny. While Trump has previously expressed admiration for the Russian leader, his recent remarks suggest a deepening frustration with Putin’s actions. During the interview, Trump acknowledged his “very good relationship” with Putin but emphasized that the “anger dissipates quickly… if he does the right thing.”
Putin’s rejection of a joint US-Ukrainian proposal for a 30-day ceasefire further complicated matters. Instead, the Russian leader floated the idea of removing Zelensky from office as part of the peace process, a suggestion that infuriated Trump. Zelensky, who has become a global symbol of resistance against Russian aggression, responded by rallying international support for continued sanctions against Moscow.
Impact on the Ground
On the battlefield, Russian forces have intensified their offensive, capturing territory in northeastern Ukraine near the border with Dnipropetrovsk. Six strikes hit Kharkiv overnight Saturday into Sunday, injuring personnel at a military hospital and resulting in civilian casualties. The Kremlin’s advances underscore the persistence of the conflict, even as diplomatic channels remain open.
Ukraine has accused Russia of prolonging negotiations without genuine intent to cease hostilities. Recent attacks on strategic locations, including Kharkiv, highlight the grim reality on the ground. Meanwhile, the capture of villages along the border with Dnipropetrovsk signals Moscow’s determination to push forward despite mounting international condemnation.
Threat of Economic Sanctions
Trump’s proposed secondary tariffs on Russian oil exports represent a potent weapon in Washington’s arsenal. If implemented, these tariffs would impose a 25 percent levy on oil imports from Russia, effectively making it economically unviable for countries to trade with Moscow. Trump explained that such measures would ensure “if you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States.”
While details remain sparse, the threat of secondary tariffs underscores Trump’s willingness to deploy economic leverage against Russia. However, the efficacy of such measures depends heavily on global cooperation, as many nations rely on Russian energy supplies. The announcement also raises questions about the broader impact on global markets and the potential for retaliation from Moscow.
Diplomatic Deadlock
Despite efforts to broker peace, both sides appear entrenched in their positions. Ukraine insists on a ceasefire without preconditions, while Russia demands concessions, including changes to leadership in Kyiv. The lack of agreement on key issues has frustrated Western allies, particularly as fresh attacks continue to claim civilian lives.
Zelensky, in his Saturday evening address, criticized Russia’s intransigence and thanked allies for maintaining pressure through sanctions. He emphasized that a ceasefire is possible but requires concerted international effort to compel Moscow to comply.
Washington, meanwhile, continues to walk a fine line, balancing its desire for peace with its support for Ukraine. Trump’s recent statements indicate a growing impatience with the status quo, raising concerns about potential escalations in the future.
As tensions rise, the stakes grow higher for all parties involved. Trump’s threat of secondary tariffs on Russian oil adds a new layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. While the measure could potentially exert pressure on Moscow, its implementation risks complicating global energy markets and straining alliances.
The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a litmus test for international diplomacy, with far-reaching implications for global stability. As leaders navigate this treacherous landscape, the world watches anxiously, hoping for a resolution that brings an end to the bloodshed and restores peace to the region.
