In brief
As hostilities continue unabated, Trump's ultimatum raises questions about the feasibility of peace talks.
Donald Trump has expressed his disappointment in Russian President Vladimir Putin's lack of progress toward resolving the war in Ukraine, announcing a new ultimatum for a ceasefire. The former US president stated during a press conference in Scotland that Russia has "ten or 12 days" from Monday to reach an agreement on stopping hostilities. Trump previously set a 50-day deadline for Putin, warning of severe tariffs that could be imposed on Russia should negotiations falter.Speaking alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Trump reiterated his frustrations with the ongoing violence in Ukraine, marking three and a half years since Russia's full-scale invasion commenced. He emphasized that with no advancements toward peace, there was no need for further delays in negotiations.Although Trump confirmed he would clarify the ultimatum in the coming days, he reinforced the potential of implementing secondary tariffs aimed at crippling Russia's economy, particularly a suggested 100% tax on countries engaging in trade with Russia. This strategy aims to deter US businesses from buying Russian goods, opting instead for cheaper alternatives from other markets.While Trump remained critical of Putin's actions, he refrained from labeling the Russian leader's assurances as deceitful, choosing instead to stress the stark contrast between Putin's pledges for peace and the continued missile strikes on Ukrainian cities. He lamented the missed opportunities for a ceasefire, stating he had grown disillusioned with the negotiation process, exclaiming, "I say, forget it. I'm not gonna talk anymore."In response to Trump's assertions, Russian officials, including MP Andrey Gurulyov, downplayed the effectiveness of the ultimatum, asserting that military strength would ultimately prevail in their dealings. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov previously indicated that Russia would require time to assess Trump's initial deadline seriously.Ukrainian officials welcomed Trump's hardened stance, with presidential chief of staff Andriy Yermak praising him for sending a resolute message advocating for peace through strength. However, as Russia escalates its military operations in Ukraine, both sides face challenges in agreeing on terms for a ceasefire. Russia's preconditions for peace, such as Ukrainian neutrality and reduced military capabilities, remain intolerable to Kyiv and its Western allies. Negotiations hosted by Turkey have resulted in limited progress, leading to a complex and uncertain path toward resolution as the 12-day deadline looms.
