WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to make Ukraine deal now and end the war.
“We can do it the easy way, or the hard way – and the easy way is always better. It’s time to “MAKE A DEAL.”, Trump said in a social media post on his platform Truth Social.
“If we don’t make a deal soon, I’ll impose high taxes, tariffs, and sanctions on all Russian goods sold to the U.S. and other participating nations,” Trump said.
He further said that he does not wish to harm Russia. “I love the Russian people and have a great relationship with President Putin,” he said. “But this war must end. Russia helped us win World War II, losing 60 million lives. Now, I’m offering Putin a chance to settle and stop this ridiculous conflict. It’s only going to get worse.”
On Tuesday, Trump hinted at further sanctions if Putin refuses to engage in peace talks. When asked about additional measures, Trump said, “Sounds likely.”
Trump also expressed his intent to speak with Putin soon, though he did not provide a specific timeframe. “We’re talking with [Ukrainian President Volodymyr] Zelenskyy, and I’ll be speaking with President Putin very soon,” he added.
In a separate call, Trump urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to play a role in ending the conflict. “He hasn’t done much yet, but he has the power to help. I told him, ‘You should get this settled,’” Trump said.
Trump’s team is also considering sending more weapons to Ukraine. During his campaign, he criticized President Joe Biden’s aid strategy but said he would explore a lend-lease programme that would allow Ukraine to repay the U.S. for arms over time.
Trump warned Putin of the consequences if the conflict continues. “I think Putin is destroying Russia by not making a deal,” he said.
Also Read: Trump bans transgender troops to serve in US military
Russian officials said they are monitoring Trump’s remarks. Foreign policy adviser Yury Ushakov stated Moscow is waiting for “concrete proposals.”
Putin also held a video call with Chinese President Xi on January 21.
Both leaders reaffirmed their partnership and discussed possible coordination with Trump’s team. “Joint efforts by Russia and China play a stabilizing role in global affairs,” Putin told Xi.
