Trump Increasingly Frustrated with Putin, Considers Tougher Sanctions as Russia Pummels Ukraine

U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin. This follows heavy Russian airstrikes on Ukraine over the weekend, despite international calls for a ceasefire.

The strikes hit major Ukrainian cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Odesa. Ukrainian emergency services reported several civilian casualties and damage to energy infrastructure.

In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday, Trump wrote, “What Vladimir Putin doesn’t realize is that if it weren’t for me, lots of really bad things would have already happened to Russia, and I mean REALLY BAD. He’s playing with fire!”

Trump also claimed that Putin had “gone absolutely CRAZY,” a statement that triggered panic in Russian markets. The ruble fell sharply, and the Moscow Exchange experienced its worst single-day drop in months.

Although Trump did not explain what “really bad things” meant, insiders say the White House is preparing new sanctions. These could affect Russian exports, oil shipping logistics, and foreign investments, though Russia’s banking sector may not be targeted immediately.

Moscow Reject Ceasefire Proposal

Despite his past friendly stance toward Putin, Trump is increasingly frustrated. Last month, he proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire to both Russia and Ukraine.

However, sources say Moscow dismissed the proposal without explanation. Trump later told reporters after a phone conversation with Putin, “We’ll see how Russia behaves.” He added that Putin had floated a memorandum about talks with Kyiv but gave no firm commitments.

Two senior Western officials said Trump is now “seriously considering” removing all military restrictions placed on Ukraine by the Biden administration. This includes allowing Ukraine to use U.S.-supplied weapons more freely in contested regions.

This potential shift comes after what analysts call the “most intense wave of Russian aggression” since the invasion began.

Meanwhile, NATO leaders are holding emergency discussions. They are concerned about a possible new Russian offensive aimed at gaining leverage before peace negotiations resume.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has also renewed his appeal for advanced missile defense systems and additional financial aid. The Ukrainian government fears another escalation in the conflict if Western support weakens.

The situation remains tense as diplomats on both sides prepare for the next round of talks in Geneva next week.

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