Sanctions Trump could impose on Russia if peace talks don't advance have been revealed
Deputy Chief of Staff, James Blair noted that the president is willing to do "whatever it takes" to pressure Putin and facilitate a deal.
President Donald Trump at the White House.
The White House confirmed Monday that President Donald Trump is considering imposing new sanctions against Russia if Vladimir Putin does not demonstrate a real commitment to peace negotiations in Ukraine. According to Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair, measures under consideration include tightening existing sanctions and imposing secondary tariffs on Russian oil as part of efforts to accelerate dialogue.
In an interview with Fox & Friends, Blair noted that Trump is willing to do "whatever it takes" to pressure Putin and facilitate a deal. The announcement reflects Washington's growing frustration following recent attacks on civilians in Kyiv, which left at least 12 dead and more than 90 wounded, including several children.
Trump: pressure on both sides in search of deal
Blair indicated that while Trump acknowledges some progress, he remains dissatisfied with the slow pace of the process. Over the weekend, he criticized Ukraine's failure to sign an agreement weeks ago and urged acceleration of the talks. Regarding Russia, he strongly condemned the attacks on civilians, warning that he will not tolerate acts that jeopardize the chances for peace.
When asked whether Trump fears he is being duped by Putin, Blair recalled a recent post by the president on Truth Social, where he warned that he will not accept excuses or delaying tactics.
Should the violence persist, Trump considers stepping up economic pressure through additional sanctions and tariffs on Russian oil, one of the Kremlin's main sources of funding.
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