U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of “devastating” repercussions for Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to agree to a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine.
During a discussion on his administration’s efforts to broker peace, Trump issued the ultimatum, emphasizing the potential financial consequences Russia could face.
When asked about measures the U.S. could take to pressure Russia into agreeing to peace, Trump responded, “There are things that wouldn’t be pleasant in a financial sense. I can do things financially that would be very bad for Russia. I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace.”
He reiterated his stance, adding, “In a financial sense, yes, we could do things that would be very bad for Russia, that would be devastating for Russia. But I don’t want to do that.”
His remarks followed an announcement from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz that Ukraine had agreed to a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire—provided Russia also complies.
The United States has already imposed numerous economic sanctions on Russia and its oligarchs, dating back to the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
With the potential ceasefire now dependent on Russia’s response, Trump is intensifying economic pressure on the Kremlin.
When questioned about whether Putin would honor a ceasefire given his history of breaking past agreements, Trump acknowledged the uncertainty.
“We haven’t spoken to him yet with substance, because we just found out. We’re going to know very soon. I’ve gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. Very serious situation. This is a situation that could lead to World War III.”
The ceasefire proposal emerged from discussions in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine agreed to the U.S. plan. In conjunction with this development, the U.S. announced it would resume military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.
Following the talks, Rubio emphasized that the next move rests with Russia.
“We’re going to tell them this is what’s on the table. Ukraine is ready to stop shooting and start talking. And now it’ll be up to them to say yes or no,” he stated.
