President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has urged the United States to intensify sanctions against Russia, asserting that Moscow has “violated” agreements aimed at ceasing attacks on energy infrastructure and activities in the Black Sea.
“I believe we have reached the point where we need to enhance the impact of sanctions, as the Russians are not honoring their commitments to America,”
President Zelensky stated during a press conference in Kyiv.
“We are very hopeful that President (Donald) Trump possesses the necessary tools to amplify the sanctions pressure on Russia.”
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In the meantime, Russia has indicated that it is collaborating with the United States on proposals for a potential peace agreement in Ukraine and on fostering bilateral relations.
This statement followed President Trump’s expression of anger towards Vladimir Putin after the Russian leader questioned Mr. Zelensky’s credibility.
In an NBC News interview, Mr. Trump also hinted at the possibility of imposing secondary tariffs of 25-50% on purchasers of Russian oil.
He later reaffirmed to reporters his disappointment with Mr. Putin but remarked, “I believe we are making gradual progress.”
Read more: Trump criticizes both Putin and Zelensky regarding ceasefire discussions
When questioned about Mr. Trump’s remarks, Russian government spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Mr. Putin remains receptive to communication with Mr. Trump and continues to engage with the U.S.
“We are actively collaborating with the American side, primarily to restore our bilateral relations, which suffered significantly under the previous U.S. administration,” Mr. Peskov remarked.
“We are also pursuing the implementation of various ideas associated with the settlement of the Ukrainian issue. This work is ongoing, but as of now, there are no specific details that we can or should disclose. It is a lengthy process, likely due to its complexity,” he added.
Mr. Peskov mentioned that a call between Mr. Trump and Mr. Putin could be arranged quickly if needed, although none is scheduled for this week.
Mr. Trump has expressed a desire to be remembered as a peacemaker and to resolve the three-year conflict in Ukraine.
He has also warned about the potential risks of the situation escalating into a global war between the United States and Russia.
Yesterday, he reiterated that he would impose secondary tariffs if Mr. Putin does not cooperate.
“I want to see him reach an agreement to prevent further casualties among Russian and Ukrainian soldiers, as well as others,” he told reporters in Washington.
“I am confident he will follow through.”
The Kremlin stated that President Vladimir Putin is ‘open to communication with Donald Trump.’
Since assuming office in January, President Trump has adopted a more conciliatory approach towards Russia, creating unease among Western allies as he endeavors to mediate an end to the war.
His comments regarding Mr. Putin convey his increasing frustration over the stagnation of ceasefire efforts.
“If Russia and I are unable to negotiate an end to the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I determine that Russia is at fault… I will impose secondary tariffs on oil, targeting all oil imports from Russia,” Mr. Trump stated in his NBC interview.
“That means if you purchase oil from Russia, you will be barred from doing business in the United States.”
“There will be a 25% tariff on all oil, and a 25-50% tariff on all oil,” he elaborated.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is advocating for enhanced sanctions from the U.S.
China and India account for approximately 80% of Russian crude oil exports. Chinese traders indicated they remain unfazed by the tariff threat, while China stated its cooperation with Russia is not directed against or impacted by other nations. India opted not to comment.
Both Ukraine and Russia have explored cooperation in minerals, though President Trump mentioned that Mr. Zelensky was considering withdrawing from a proposed agreement.
Discussions between Russia and the U.S. have begun regarding joint ventures in rare earth metals and other projects, with companies showing interest, according to President Putin’s investment envoy, Kirill Dmitriev.
“While we have no specifics at this time, the interest is clear and mutually beneficial,” Mr. Peskov commented.
