In a major policy shift, Trump threatens sweeping economic sanctions and intensifies military support for Ukraine amid record civilian casualties.
New Delhi: 15 July 2025
In a bold new approach to pressure Moscow, U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a 50-day deadline to Russia, warning of “very severe tariffs” if a peace agreement to end the Ukraine war isn’t reached. Speaking from the Oval Office during a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on July 14, Trump proposed secondary tariffs that would not only target Russia but also penalize nations continuing to trade with it.
“I use trade for a lot of things… it’s great for settling wars,” Trump declared, signaling a dramatic pivot from his past rhetoric perceived as soft on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Now, Trump has accused Putin of having “gone absolutely CRAZY,” referencing the Kremlin’s continued assaults on Ukrainian civilians.
The shift in tone comes amid escalating violence June alone marked the war’s deadliest month in three years, with over 230 civilian deaths, according to the UN. In response, NATO allies are accelerating arms transfers to Ukraine. Trump confirmed that new shipments of U.S.-made Patriot missile systems are en route, partly funded by the EU, to enhance Ukraine’s defense against drone and missile attacks.
Meanwhile, Trump’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to discuss expanding arms production and tightening sanctions. However, Russian official Kirill Dmitriev downplayed the tariff threats, calling instead for renewed diplomatic talks.
With over 1,500 civilian casualties in June and a growing NATO military footprint in Ukraine, Trump’s ultimatum is being viewed as his strongest stance yet on the conflict. Experts say the aggressive economic maneuver could force Moscow to the negotiating table or risk deepening global economic tensions.
