Trump threatens Russia with crushing Sanctions as Ukraine faces devastating strikes

U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled his intent to impose fresh sanctions and tariffs on Russia as the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, with Moscow launching a new wave of strikes on Ukrainian targets.

In a statement on social media, Trump wrote: “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 urged both Russia and Ukraine to engage in immediate negotiations, warning, “Get to the table right now, before it is too late.”

The remarks come amid one of the largest Russian aerial assaults this year, with Ukraine’s air force reporting that 67 missiles were launched overnight—20 of them from Russian warships in the Black Sea, the highest number recorded in 2025.

The strikes targeted Ukraine’s gas extraction facilities, though Kyiv has refrained from disclosing details to prevent aiding Russian post-strike assessments.

No fatalities have been reported.

Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the U.S., UK, EU, and allied nations have imposed over 21,000 sanctions against Moscow, primarily targeting its financial sector, oil exports, and key industries.

These measures include restrictions on technology exports, bans on Russian gold and diamond imports, flight prohibitions, and asset seizures of Kremlin-linked oligarchs.

Speaking at an economic update, Trump was asked whether he still believes Russian President Vladimir Putin is committed to peace. He responded, “I think we’re doing very well with Russia. But right now, they’re bombing the hell out of Ukraine.”

He expressed frustration over negotiations, stating, “I’m finding it more difficult to deal with Ukraine,” and suggesting that securing a final peace deal might be “easier to deal with Russia, which is odd, as they have all the cards.”

Looking ahead to next week’s diplomatic meeting in Saudi Arabia, Trump reiterated his willingness to assist Ukraine but stressed the urgency of reaching a resolution.

“They have to get on the ball, to get the job done,” he said.

When questioned about withholding U.S. military aid, particularly air defense support, Trump cast doubt on Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate. “If they don’t want to settle, we’re out of there,” he stated, adding that his priority is “to stop death.”

Reflecting on recent European discussions, Trump issued a stark warning, cautioning that the prolonged conflict could escalate into “World War Three” if left unresolved.