Trump, Melania Push Tougher US Arms, Tariffs on Russia Amid Ukraine War

President Donald Trump has recently shifted to a tougher stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, authorizing significant shipments of U.S. defensive weapons to Ukraine via NATO and threatening 100% tariffs on Russia if a ceasefire is not reached within 50 days. This change in approach is attributed not to a new strategic worldview but to Trump's frustration over Putin's continued aggression despite diplomatic talks. Trump revealed that First Lady Melania Trump played a key role in influencing his perspective by highlighting the contradiction between his cordial conversations with Putin and the subsequent Russian missile attacks on Ukrainian cities. Melania, who has personal experience with communist regimes from her upbringing in former Yugoslavia, often points out these discrepancies to the president, prompting him to reconsider the sincerity of Putin's peace overtures. Trump expressed disappointment that repeated promises from Putin have not led to peace, describing Putin as a "tough guy" who has "fooled a lot of people" but not him. The president's renewed pressure on Russia reflects his desire for tangible action rather than endless negotiations, with increased military aid to Ukraine signaling a more assertive U.S. position.