The Kremlin has revealed that the United States and Russia are actively working on potential peace settlement ideas for Ukraine, as well as strengthening bilateral ties. This announcement comes on the heels of US President Donald Trump expressing his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
In a recent interview with NBC News, Trump stated that he was “pissed off” with Putin, particularly in light of the Russian president’s criticisms of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s leadership. Trump emphasized that he would be forced to impose severe tariffs on buyers of Russian oil if he felt that Moscow was hindering his efforts to bring an end to the war in Ukraine.
Trump specified that these tariffs could range from 25% to 50% and would be imposed on countries such as China and India, which are significant buyers of Russian oil. Furthermore, Trump warned that if Russia and the US failed to reach a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if he believed Russia was at fault, he would take drastic measures.
“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,” Trump stated. He clarified that this would mean a 25% tariff on all oil, potentially increasing to 50%.
Trump’s comments reflect his growing frustration with the lack of progress on a ceasefire in Ukraine. Despite this, he expressed optimism that progress was being made, albeit slowly. “I think we are making progress, step by step,” Trump said.
In response to Trump’s comments, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Moscow was continuing to work with Washington to build bilateral relations and explore potential solutions to the Ukrainian conflict. Peskov noted that Putin remained open to contacts with Trump and that a call between the two leaders could be arranged at short notice if necessary.
Peskov highlighted the complexity of the issues involved in the Ukrainian settlement, acknowledging that the process was time-consuming. “We are continuing to work with the American side, first of all, to build our bilateral relations, which were badly damaged during the previous administration,” Peskov said.
The Kremlin’s efforts to work with the US on Ukraine and bilateral ties reflect a desire to improve relations, which have been strained in recent years. Trump’s administration has adopted a more conciliatory approach towards Russia, which has left some Western allies wary.
As the US and Russia continue to explore potential solutions to the Ukrainian conflict, the threat of tariffs on Russian oil remains a significant point of contention. Trump’s willingness to impose these tariffs underscores his determination to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, even if it means taking drastic measures.
