President Donald Trump: I Will Speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin Again to End Bloodshed in Ukraine

President Donald Trump: I Will Speak to Russian President Vladimir Putin Again to End Bloodshed in Ukraine

Washington, March 31, 2025: U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he is "angered" by Russian President Vladimir Putin and has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Russian oil if the war in Ukraine does not stop.

In an interview on the matter, Trump said, "If Russia and I cannot reach an agreement to end the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I believe it is Russia's fault—which may not be the case—I will impose a second round of tariffs on oil coming from Russia." He further added that the 25% tariff could be imposed at any time and that he will speak to Putin soon.

Trump said he was "angered" when Putin questioned the legitimacy of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and discussed the possibility of new leadership in Ukraine. Last Thursday, Putin proposed the establishment of a temporary administration in Ukraine under the supervision of the United Nations, which was swiftly rejected by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

There has been no response from Russia following these comments. Russia has described Western sanctions as "illegal" and an attempt to take advantage of its economic rivalry with the West.

Trump's comments come after a meeting and a round of golf with Finnish President Alexander Stubb on Saturday. Stubb proposed to Trump setting a specific deadline for a Ukraine-Russia ceasefire, which could be set for April 20.

These comments align with Trump's previous remarks, where he threatened to impose a 25% tariff on countries buying oil from Venezuela. Now, he is suggesting similar measures for countries buying oil from Russia, which could have a significant impact on nations like China and India.

Trump stated that Putin knows he is angry with him but added, "I have a very good relationship with Putin, and if he does the right thing, my anger will quickly disappear."