As Russia intensifies attacks on Ukraine, Trump considers large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs to push for a ceasefire and final peace agreement.
Trump Considers Sanctions on Russia, Calls for Urgent Peace Talks
Washington, DC [US], March 8 – U.S. President Donald Trump has announced he is “strongly considering” imposing large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs on Russia unless a ceasefire and final peace settlement agreement with Ukraine is reached.
Trump’s warning comes in response to Moscow’s recent missile and drone strikes on Ukraine’s energy and gas infrastructure, marking an escalation in the ongoing conflict.
“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,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post on Friday.
Urging both nations to negotiate, he added, “To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late.”
U.S. and Ukraine to Discuss Ceasefire Framework in Saudi Arabia
As tensions continue to rise, Ukraine and the U.S. have confirmed plans to meet in Saudi Arabia next week to discuss a framework for ending Russia’s invasion.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is set to travel to Saudi Arabia on Monday for a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman before holding bilateral talks with U.S. officials.
- U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff will lead discussions with Ukrainian representatives in Jeddah, focusing on an “initial ceasefire” and a roadmap for a long-term peace agreement.
- Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the talks will take place in the Red Sea city of Jeddah.
Trump’s Strained Relationship with Zelenskyy
Trump’s latest remarks follow a heated exchange with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy during a meeting at the White House on March 1.
- Trump criticized Zelenskyy, stating that he was not “acting thankful” despite the extensive military support the U.S. has provided to Ukraine since the war began in February 2022.
- In response, Zelenskyy stressed the need for security guarantees, pointing out that Russia continued its aggression even during Trump’s first term.
- Trump responded by suspending military aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv following their tense discussion.
During the interaction, Trump bluntly told Zelenskyy:
“If you didn’t have our military equipment, this war would have been over in two weeks.”
U.S. Vice President JD Vance also weighed in, stating that Zelenskyy’s remarks were “disrespectful” and that it was inappropriate to criticize the U.S. administration in the Oval Office.
What’s Next?
With Trump now pushing for aggressive economic sanctions against Russia, several questions arise:
✔ Will Russia respond to economic pressure and consider negotiations?
✔ Can the Saudi-hosted talks yield an initial ceasefire framework?
✔ How will Ukraine react to Trump’s tougher stance on aid and military support?
As the war enters another critical phase, the world waits to see whether diplomatic efforts can succeed—or if escalation will continue.
Tags: Donald Trump, Russia Sanctions, Ukraine War, Vladimir Putin, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, US-Ukraine Relations, Saudi Peace Talks, Banking Sanctions, Military Aid, US Foreign Policy