Former US President Donald Trump has announced that he is “strongly considering large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs” on Russia until a ceasefire and a final peace settlement with Ukraine is achieved.
Trump’s statement comes after Russia launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukrainian energy and gas infrastructure on Thursday. In a post on Truth Social, he 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 also urged both Russia and Ukraine to “get to the table right now, before it is too late.”
US-Ukraine Talks in Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, the US and Ukraine are expected to hold discussions in Saudi Arabia next week to explore a framework for ending the war. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Jeddah on Monday before engaging in bilateral talks with US officials.
US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed he would meet Ukrainian officials in Saudi Arabia, hinting at discussions on an “initial ceasefire” and a broader “framework” for peace. Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the talks will be held in the Red Sea city of Jeddah.
Tensions Between Trump and Zelenskyy
The diplomatic developments follow a tense exchange between Trump and Zelenskyy on March 1, after which Trump suspended military aid and intelligence sharing with Kyiv.
During their fiery interaction, Trump criticized Zelenskyy, telling him he “does not have the cards” and is not “acting thankful” for US support. Trump also emphasized the need for Ukraine to seek peace, saying,
“If you didn’t have our military equipment, this war would have been over in two weeks.”
US Vice President JD Vance also weighed in, calling Zelenskyy’s remarks “disrespectful” and stating that it was inappropriate to “attack the administration that is trying to prevent the destruction of your country.”
As diplomatic efforts continue, the focus remains on whether a ceasefire agreement can be reached amid escalating tensions on the battlefield.