Washington/Europe: US President Donald Trump has once again warned Russian President Vladimir Putin to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine ahead of the US-Russia summit scheduled in Alaska. Trump cautioned that failure to comply could lead to severe consequences, including tariffs and sanctions. He reportedly reiterated the message during a virtual meeting with European leaders, emphasizing the need for Russia to agree to a peace deal.
French President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope that the summit would secure a ceasefire and indicated a possible trilateral meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in a neutral country following talks with Putin. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz added that the US and Europe must increase pressure on Russia if no progress is made toward peace.
Meanwhile, Zelensky spoke with Trump via video conference from Berlin, accusing Putin of stalling and attempting to expand the war, claiming Russia has the capability to occupy all of Ukraine. He urged the US to impose additional sanctions if a ceasefire is not agreed upon, stressing that sanctions would significantly impact Russia’s economy despite Moscow’s claims. Zelensky also highlighted that global leaders remain united in their push for an end to hostilities.
Trump has previously threatened Russia with similar measures in July, calling for a ceasefire within 50 days and warning of extensive tariffs if ignored. He reaffirmed US support for Ukraine, including supplying advanced weapons to NATO in coordination with Ukraine, specifying that Patriot missile systems and batteries would be part of the aid package.