President Donald Trump is taking direct action to push Russia and Ukraine toward a cease-fire, threatening Moscow with major economic penalties if negotiations do not begin immediately. His approach signals a shift in U.S. strategy, focusing on financial leverage instead of military aid.
In a Truth Social post on Friday, Trump made it clear he is considering expanding sanctions on Russia’s banking sector. “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 stated.
Trump’s remarks come days after a heated meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. Sources report that Zelensky was dismissed from the discussion after pushing for continued U.S. military support, a sign that Trump is prioritizing diplomatic resolutions over further 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
His administration is also taking steps to facilitate talks, with key officials traveling to Saudi Arabia next week to meet with Ukrainian representatives. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that discussions will focus on securing a cease-fire agreement.
Trump’s economic warning could have severe consequences for Russia. If enacted, these sanctions could be modeled after past measures against Iran, which cut off businesses and financial institutions that worked with the regime, effectively crippling its economy.
As concerns rise about the war spiraling beyond Ukraine, Trump is making it clear that both nations must come to the table — or face serious economic consequences.
