Trump Signals Harsher Stance on Russia, Vows to Shorten Ceasefire Deadline Over Escalating Ukraine Conflict
U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed sharp disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin over continued military aggression in Ukraine, announcing his intention to shorten the 50-day ultimatum previously set for a ceasefire agreement.
Speaking at a press briefing, President Trump said, “We’ve had multiple rounds of discussions with President Putin that showed promise. However, each time, the progress is undone by renewed violence — most recently, the horrific missile strikes on Kyiv that killed civilians, including residents of a nursing home. I find this deeply unacceptable. The United States is now reassessing its approach, and I intend to reduce the 50-day window I initially provided, because it’s clear how this is unfolding.”
The original ultimatum, outlined earlier this month, stipulated that if a peace settlement was not reached within 50 days, the U.S. would impose 100% tariffs on Russian goods and enact sweeping secondary sanctions. White House Press Secretary Caroline Levitt confirmed that the penalties would extend to any country purchasing Russian oil, aiming to substantially tighten economic pressure on Moscow.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessant emphasized the need for allied coordination, urging European partners to adopt similar measures should the U.S. proceed with the proposed secondary sanctions. Energy Secretary Chris Wright also reaffirmed that sanctions targeting Russian oil exports remain a central component of the administration’s strategy to compel Moscow to end hostilities.
President Trump has since suggested that the punitive measures may be implemented ahead of schedule. When asked about the possibility of moving forward with secondary sanctions sooner, he responded, “We’re actively reviewing the situation. It’s very possible we’ll act before the initial deadline.”
The administration’s remarks signal a significant escalation in Washington’s posture, reflecting mounting frustration with Russia’s continued defiance of diplomatic efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
