Trump Threatens Tariffs, Expands Ukraine Military Aid

President Donald Trump has threatened to impose secondary tariffs of up to 100% on Russian exports and countries trading with Russia, including China, India, Brazil, and Turkiye, unless President Vladimir Putin agrees to a ceasefire or peace deal in Ukraine within 50 days. Trump expressed disappointment with Putin's ongoing aggression and noted that previous peace negotiations had failed. The tariffs are intended to increase economic pressure not only on Russia but also on its major trading partners. Additionally, Trump announced that the U.S. will provide billions of dollars in military aid to Ukraine, including advanced weapons such as Patriot air defense systems, with NATO allies expected to cover the cost. NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte welcomed the support, highlighting the importance of new weapons for Ukraine's defense. Financial markets, including Bitcoin, experienced significant volatility in response to the announcement.