Russia Dismisses Trump’s Ukraine Sanctions Ultimatum

President Donald Trump threatened to impose severe economic sanctions including 100% tariffs on Russia and secondary sanctions on countries buying Russian exports if Moscow does not reach a peace agreement in Ukraine within 50 days. Russian officials and state media largely dismissed Trump's ultimatum as theatrical and ineffective, with Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev stating that Russia paid no attention and that Europe was disappointed. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Russia remains open to diplomacy but rejected ultimatums, and noted that decisions from NATO and Western countries are seen by Ukraine as signals to continue the war. Russian state media highlighted recent Russian military advances and downplayed the impact of Trump’s threats, while some analysts suggested Trump’s approach sought to balance hardline Western factions and more moderate forces without escalating direct confrontation with Russia. Trump expressed frustration with Vladimir Putin, calling him a “tough guy,” and indicated he believes a Ukraine peace deal is possible. Despite Trump's warnings, Russia continues to receive significant crude oil purchases from countries like China and India, lessening the potential effect of US sanctions.