U.S. President Donald Trump has taken a firm stance to compel Russia to end the ongoing war in Ukraine, expressing frustration over Moscow’s apparent disregard for diplomatic efforts. To increase pressure, Trump imposed sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies, a move officially endorsed by the White House. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt described the actions as appropriate and necessary, emphasizing that the President is deeply disappointed by Russia’s failure to engage constructively for peace.
Leavitt noted that the sanctions are intended to pressure Russia into showing genuine interest in ending the conflict. She highlighted that the U.S. administration believes these measures are justified given Russia’s continued intransigence and lack of cooperation in resolving the Ukraine crisis. According to Leavitt, Trump’s approach reflects a strategic effort to use economic leverage to influence Moscow’s behavior.
In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin vowed to confront the U.S. firmly and warned of strong countermeasures against any actions targeting Russia. Putin asserted that the sanctions imposed on Russian oil companies would not affect the country’s economic stability, citing Russia’s energy self-sufficiency. He stressed that no nation with national pride and a sovereign population would succumb to external pressure, and added that sanctions could disrupt global energy balance and drive up prices worldwide.
#WATCH | Washington, DC | On Russian President Putin's reported statement that US sanctions won't impact the Russian economy, US President Donald Trump says, "I am glad he feels that way. I'll let you know about it in six months from now. Let's see how it all works out…"… pic.twitter.com/1WUgfxmxSp
— ANI (@ANI) October 23, 2025
Trump responded to Putin’s comments by stating that he was pleased the Russian President recognized the sanctions as unfriendly. He further noted that the true impact of the measures would become evident over the next six months, signaling that the U.S. intends to maintain substantial pressure on Russia until it takes tangible steps toward ending the war in Ukraine.