Trump Threatens Tariffs on Russian Oil Amid Ukraine Conflict Stalemate
U.S. President expresses frustration with Putin's comments and warns of punitive tariffs if peace negotiations stall.
In a recent television interview, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed significant displeasure with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating he would impose secondary tariffs of 25% to 50% on Russian oil buyers if Moscow obstructs efforts to conclude the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
This declaration adds a new layer to the U.S. administration's approach towards Russia amid the prolonged war that has persisted since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Trump's irritation stemmed from Putin's recent remarks that questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, heightening tensions between the U.S. and Russia.
Trump articulated his frustration during a call with NBC News, indicating that a lack of progress on a ceasefire is unacceptable.
He stated, '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 oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.'
He further clarified that these tariffs would restrict business dealings in the U.S. for companies purchasing Russian oil, signaling a strong stance on economic penalties.
'There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,' he added.
Trump's comments reflect a notable shift from his previously more conciliatory stance towards Russia since he took office in January.
His past efforts to broker peace have left Western allies cautious, given the complexity of international relations and the ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
Despite his explicit frustrations, Trump maintained that dialogue with Putin continues, indicating plans for a phone call with the Russian leader in the coming week.
In this context, he emphasized, 'I think we are making progress, step by step.'
The Kremlin has no immediate response to Trump's threats, but previously, Russia has labeled Western sanctions as 'illegal' and a means for Western powers to gain economic leverage against Moscow.
In related developments, Trump has expressed a desire for new elections in Ukraine, indirectly supporting Putin's suggestion for a temporary administration in Ukraine prior to elections.
As diplomatic relations remain strained, the U.S. administration’s next steps and the outcomes of ongoing negotiations are closely watched on the global stage.
This declaration adds a new layer to the U.S. administration's approach towards Russia amid the prolonged war that has persisted since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Trump's irritation stemmed from Putin's recent remarks that questioned the leadership of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, heightening tensions between the U.S. and Russia.
Trump articulated his frustration during a call with NBC News, indicating that a lack of progress on a ceasefire is unacceptable.
He stated, '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 oil, on all oil coming out of Russia.'
He further clarified that these tariffs would restrict business dealings in the U.S. for companies purchasing Russian oil, signaling a strong stance on economic penalties.
'There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, a 25- to 50-point tariff on all oil,' he added.
Trump's comments reflect a notable shift from his previously more conciliatory stance towards Russia since he took office in January.
His past efforts to broker peace have left Western allies cautious, given the complexity of international relations and the ongoing military actions in Ukraine.
Despite his explicit frustrations, Trump maintained that dialogue with Putin continues, indicating plans for a phone call with the Russian leader in the coming week.
In this context, he emphasized, 'I think we are making progress, step by step.'
The Kremlin has no immediate response to Trump's threats, but previously, Russia has labeled Western sanctions as 'illegal' and a means for Western powers to gain economic leverage against Moscow.
In related developments, Trump has expressed a desire for new elections in Ukraine, indirectly supporting Putin's suggestion for a temporary administration in Ukraine prior to elections.
As diplomatic relations remain strained, the U.S. administration’s next steps and the outcomes of ongoing negotiations are closely watched on the global stage.
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