Trump Urges Putin to End Ukraine War, Threatens Severe Sanctions

Newly sworn-in U.S. President Donald Trump has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, warning of heavy economic sanctions if the conflict persists.
In a post on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday, Trump emphasized the need for an immediate resolution to the war, which began in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The conflict has resulted in widespread devastation, the displacement of millions, and significant casualties on both sides.
“All of that being said, I’m going to do Russia, whose Economy is failing, and President Putin, a very big FAVOR. Settle now and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE,” Trump wrote.
He issued a stern warning, pledging to impose high taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on Russian exports to the U.S. and allied nations if a resolution is not reached soon.
“If we don’t make a ‘deal,’ and soon, I have no other choice but to put high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions on anything being sold by Russia to the United States, and various other participating countries,” Trump added.
Trump, who was inaugurated as the 47th U.S. president earlier this week, asserted that the conflict would not have occurred under his leadership. He urged for diplomacy to bring the war to an end, stating, “Let’s get this war, which never would have started if I were President, over with! We can do it the easy way, or the hard way – and the easy way is always better. It’s time to ‘MAKE A DEAL.’ NO MORE LIVES SHOULD BE LOST!!!”
Since the onset of the war, numerous countries and international organizations have imposed sanctions on Russia in an effort to pressure Moscow into halting its aggression. Trump’s statement signals a potential escalation of U.S. measures against Russia, with his administration vowing to push for a resolution to the nearly three-year-long conflict.
The post has drawn significant attention, with many watching to see how Russia responds to the ultimatum and whether Trump’s proposed measures could bring the warring parties to the negotiating table.