U.S. President Donald Trump has warned of severe economic consequences for Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to sign a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine. Speaking to reporters in the white house, Trump stated that the U.S. has powerful financial measures at its disposal that could cause significant damage to Russia’s economy.
“We could do things very bad for Russia. It would be devastating. But I don’t want to do that because I want to see peace,” Trump declared.
The threat comes amid mounting pressure for Moscow to accept a U.S.-brokered 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. Trump confirmed that American representatives are currently on their way to Russia, following reports that his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, will travel to Moscow this week for further negotiations.
“Hopefully, we can get a ceasefire,“ Trump told reporters. “It is up to Russia now.”
Despite international pressure, President Putin appears reluctant to agree to a ceasefire while Russian forces continue to gain ground on the battlefield. Russian troops have reportedly recaptured Sudzha, a key town in the Kursk region, further strengthening their position.
On Wednesday, Russia launched fresh attacks on Ukrainian territories, including small villages and towns, as well as the capital Kyiv and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown of Kryvyi Rih.
As negotiations intensify, global leaders are keeping a close eye on Moscow’s next move. While Trump has confirmed U.S. diplomatic efforts, Russia has yet to publicly commit to a ceasefire agreement.
With the stakes rising, the world waits to see whether Putin will yield to pressure or push ahead with his military campaign in Ukraine.
