President Donald Trump expressed deep frustration with Vladimir Putin after the Russian leader publicly questioned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s credibility.
Trump Threatens Heavy Tariffs on Russian Oil
Shutterstock
Trump warned that he’s ready to impose secondary tariffs of 25% to 50% on buyers of Russian oil if Moscow continues to block efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
“If It’s Russia’s Fault — There Will Be Consequences”
Photo: Daniel Torok / Wikimedia Commons
In a Sunday interview with NBC News, Trump said: “If I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on all oil coming out of Russia.”
Business or Russia — Choose One
Photo: Jonah Elkowitz / Shutterstock.com
Trump clarified: “If you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States.” His plan would make foreign companies choose between U.S. access or Russian oil.
A 25–50% Tariff Could Hit Global Oil Markets
Photo: Shutterstock
Trump threatened a steep penalty: “A 25-to-50-point tariff on all oil.” Such a move could send shockwaves through global trade and energy markets.
A Shift in Tone Toward Moscow
Photo: Sasa Dzambic Photography / Shutterstock.com
Since returning to office in January, Trump has taken a softer approach toward Russia — but Sunday’s remarks showed a stark shift in tone.
Putin Rejected U.S.-Ukraine Ceasefire Plan
Photo: Shutterstock
Tensions escalated after Putin dismissed a proposed 30-day ceasefire between the U.S. and Ukraine — and reportedly suggested Zelenskyy be removed from office.
Trump: “He Knows I’m Angry”
Photo: Anna Moneymaker / Shutterstock.com
Trump acknowledged his frustration: “Putin knows I’m angry. But I still have a very good relationship with him.” He added that “the anger dissipates quickly… if he does the right thing.”
Trump Previously Called Zelenskyy a Dictator
Photo: The White House / Wikimedia Commons
While Trump criticized Putin for his remarks, he himself has called Zelenskyy a dictator and even pushed for new elections in Ukraine.
No Immediate Reaction from Moscow
Photo: Shutterstock.com
So far, the Kremlin has not responded to Trump’s tariff threat. Russia continues to label Western sanctions as "illegal" and "economically motivated."
Trump Says He May Act Within a Month
Photo: Shutterstock.com
The president said the tariffs could be implemented within 30 days if the situation does not improve and no ceasefire is reached.
Later Comments: “I Was Disappointed, Not Furious”
Photo: Gage Skidmore / Wikimedia Commons
Back aboard his plane to Washington, Trump softened his tone: “I was disappointed… but I think [Putin] is going to be good.” He emphasized he’d prefer not to impose tariffs.
Trump Plans Call with Putin This Week
Photo: Gil Corzo / Shutterstock.com
Despite the tensions, Trump told NBC he plans to speak directly with Putin soon in hopes of pushing forward on a peace agreement.
