On Wednesday, former U.S. President Donald Trump issued a stern warning to Russia, threatening to impose significant tariffs and sanctions if it fails to negotiate a settlement to end the war in Ukraine. However, on Thursday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov appeared dismissive of Trump’s comments.
Ukraine, as a central party to the conflict, maintains that its position is crucial in shaping any potential peace agreement. Ukrainian officials have emphasized that any deal must secure favorable terms for Kyiv. “Putin is trying to promote the idea of negotiations with the U.S. But he wants to decide the fate of Europe — without Europe. And he wants to discuss Ukraine — without Ukraine,” said Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, in a statement released Friday.
In a recent interview, Russian President Vladimir Putin referred to Trump as “smart” and “pragmatic” and expressed confidence that Trump would avoid actions that might harm the U.S. economy. “I’ve always had a businesslike, pragmatic, and even trusting relationship with the current president,” Putin remarked, according to The Moscow Times. He controversially added that had Trump’s 2020 election victory “not been stolen,” the 2022 invasion of Ukraine might not have occurred—a crisis that stemmed from Putin’s own orders.
Since his inauguration earlier this week, Trump has doubled down on his promises to swiftly end Russia’s full-scale assault on Ukraine. The new U.S. president has adopted an uncompromising tone with the Kremlin, asserting to reporters that Putin is “destroying Russia” and calling for an immediate resolution to the conflict.
Putin, however, appears intent on framing any negotiations on Ukraine through his own lens, seeking direct talks with the U.S. while sidelining European and Ukrainian voices. Kyiv, for its part, has resisted attempts to exclude its interests from discussions.
Trump’s approach to the matter has sparked renewed global attention, as his administration promises decisive action on one of the world’s most pressing geopolitical crises.
Veronika Melkozerova contributed reporting to this article.













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