- Trump threatened 100% secondary tariffs on Russia’s trade partners if a ceasefire isn’t reached within 50 days.
- He emphasized using trade pressure to “settle wars” and isolate Moscow economically.
- A new NATO arms deal will include U.S.-made Patriot missile systems to support Ukraine.
President Donald Trump has issued a stern ultimatum to Russian President Vladimir Putin, threatening to impose “very severe” secondary tariffs if Moscow doesn’t agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine within the next 50 days. Speaking from the Oval Office during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump said he was “disappointed” in Putin for failing to strike a peace deal.
“We’re going to be doing very severe tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days,” Trump told reporters, suggesting the tariffs could start at around 100%. Though he didn’t outline specific details, the implication was clear: countries doing business with Russia could also face steep penalties.
Tariffs as a Weapon of War?
Trump emphasized his belief in using trade as a diplomatic tool. “I use trade for a lot of things,” he said. “But it’s great for settling wars.” His comments suggest a broader strategy to isolate Russia economically by targeting its trading partners—particularly nations still purchasing Russian oil, such as China and India.
Secondary tariffs differ from primary sanctions in that they penalize third-party countries that help sustain Russia’s economy. This move could further squeeze Moscow, already under heavy international sanctions since the start of the war in Ukraine.
NATO Allies to Send Arms, Including Patriots, to Ukraine
Alongside the tariff announcement, Trump confirmed that the U.S. will work with NATO allies to send more weapons to Ukraine. He specifically mentioned Patriot missile systems as part of the new military aid package. The move is intended to strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid continued Russian aggression.
Trump took a jab at Putin’s mixed messaging, saying, “He talks nice and then he bombs everybody.” The upcoming arms transfer will reportedly include sales to NATO nations who will, in turn, supply the equipment to Kyiv.
