US Threatens Tariffs Over Ukraine Conflict

Published on 4.1.25

  The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has taken center stage in international relations, with US President Donald Trump threatening to impose secondary tariffs on Russian oil exports if a ceasefire is not reached. This warning was made during a phone call with NBC News, where Trump expressed his frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin's comments suggesting ways to install new leadership in Ukraine and sideline President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. This development marks a significant escalation of tensions between the US and Russia, which have been bolstering their ties since Trump's return to office. The US has continued to impose sanctions on Russia over its involvement in the conflict. Ukrainian President Zelensky has urged the US and its allies to increase pressure on Russia, describing it as seeking "nothing more than war". The threat of secondary tariffs is a significant move by Trump, who has previously expressed his admiration for Putin. However, this latest development suggests a shift in tone towards the Russian president. Ukrainian President Zelensky has stated that sanctions against Russia should remain in force as long as aggression and occupation continue, following a pan-European agreement this week.
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