President Donald Trump is taking a direct approach to ending the war in Ukraine, warning that if Moscow does not move toward a cease-fire, it will face severe economic consequences.
Posting on Truth Social on Friday, Trump announced that he is considering expanding banking sanctions and tariffs on Russia. “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 wrote.
Trump’s decision to push for negotiations follows a dramatic exchange with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House last week. The meeting reportedly ended with Zelensky being asked to leave after a dispute over continued U.S. military funding.
"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. To Russia and Ukraine,… pic.twitter.com/kwrfbaQw4d
— President Donald J. Trump (@POTUS) March 7, 2025
In addition to financial threats, Trump is sending officials to Saudi Arabia for discussions with Ukrainian representatives. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that the goal is to lay the groundwork for a potential peace settlement.
If implemented, the sanctions could cripple Russia’s ability to access global financial markets. Similar measures were used against Iran, cutting off key economic channels and pressuring its government to change course.
With the war showing no signs of slowing down, Trump is making it clear that both Russia and Ukraine must come to the table — or risk facing harsher consequences.
