U.S. President Donald Trump stated his readiness to move to the “second stage” of sanctions against the Russian Federation due to its aggression against Ukraine. Although Trump did not disclose details regarding the upcoming restrictive measures, he emphasized that he plans to hold negotiations with Russian dictator Vladimir Putin in the near future.
This is reported by Business • Media
Negotiations and international support
Trump also reported that several European leaders will visit Washington early this week to discuss ways to resolve Russia’s war against Ukraine. According to U.S. Special Representative Steve Witkoff, the American president is set on holding a trilateral meeting involving the leaders of Ukraine and Russia. Despite these plans, the Kremlin claims to be unaware of such initiatives.
During comments on recent events in Ukraine, Trump expressed outrage over the escalation of aggression, particularly the massive airstrike by Russia on Sunday night. At the same time, he reiterated his confidence in the possibility of a swift end to the war and warned that if the conflict drags on, “a high price will have to be paid.”
Reactions from the international community
U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Keith Kellogg emphasized that Russia’s recent strike on a government building in Kyiv does not indicate Moscow’s intention to end the war diplomatically. He noted that any war carries risks of escalation, and Russia’s actions only deepen the conflict.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called for increased pressure on Russia in response to new threats from Putin, stating:
“He has not yet come to terms with the necessity of peace,” Carney commented on the Kremlin leader’s position.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned the policy of appeasement towards Putin, emphasizing that such approaches only encourage further Russian aggression against the peaceful population of Ukraine. He stressed the need for decisive support for Ukrainian sovereignty and noted that Russia’s recent strikes indicate a lack of desire for peace from the Kremlin.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is convinced that despite the apparent unwillingness for peace on Putin’s part, it is the increase in international pressure that can force Russia to come to the negotiating table and end the war.