US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that the United States will impose 100% tariffs on Russia if a peace deal with Ukraine is not reached within 50 days.
Speaking from the Oval Office during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump criticised Putin over Russia’s continued assault on Ukraine.
“We are very, very unhappy with Russia, and we’re going to be doing very severe tariffs—about 100%—if we don’t have a deal in 50 days,” Trump said. “I’m disappointed in President Putin. I thought we would’ve had a deal two months ago.”
Trump also announced a deal with NATO to send advanced weaponry, including Patriot missiles, to Ukraine—stressing that European nations would cover the cost. “We’re not buying it, but we’ll manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he stated.
He emphasised the quality of US defence equipment and said at least 17 Patriot missiles are ready for shipment to Ukraine.
Trump added that the US will supply various advanced military weapons, with Ukraine paying in full. There are also indications he may approve offensive weapons, in contrast to the Biden administration’s previous approach to Russia’s 2022 invasion.
