President Donald Trump is using financial pressure to push Russia and Ukraine toward peace, announcing on Friday that he is considering strong economic measures against Moscow unless negotiations begin immediately.
Trump’s message, delivered on Truth Social, warned that he is prepared to impose large-scale financial penalties on Russia. “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 wrote.
His demand for immediate talks comes after a strained meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House. Zelensky, who was reportedly dismissed from the meeting, had pushed for continued U.S. support but faced resistance from Trump.
"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
The Trump administration is also dispatching senior officials to Saudi Arabia for cease-fire discussions with Ukrainian representatives. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that the meetings are part of Trump’s broader effort to broker peace through diplomatic and economic pressure rather than continued military aid.
If implemented, Trump’s sanctions could mirror those once imposed on Iran, affecting not only Russian industries but also foreign entities conducting business with Moscow. Analysts suggest such measures could deal a significant blow to Russia’s financial system, forcing President Vladimir Putin to reconsider his approach.
As the conflict continues, Trump is making it clear that he expects both sides to come to the table — or face the consequences.
