Lagatar24 Desk
Washington, D.C.: As Ukraine ceasefire negotiations gain momentum, US President Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Russia, stating that severe financial repercussions could follow if the Kremlin does not agree to the proposed truce.
“In a financial sense, yeah, we could do things very bad for Russia, would be devastating for Russia,” Trump said on Wednesday, pressuring Moscow to accept the deal.
US Negotiators En Route to Russia
• Trump confirmed that US officials are currently in Russia for ceasefire discussions.
• “People are going to Russia right now as we speak. And hopefully, we can get a ceasefire from Russia,” he told reporters during a meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin at the Oval Office.
Ukraine Agrees to US-Backed Ceasefire
• Ukraine accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal backed by the United States after breakthrough discussions in Saudi Arabia.
• However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy remained skeptical, stating that he still does not trust Russia.
• The Kremlin responded cautiously, saying it was awaiting details from Washington before making a decision.
Trump’s Warning & Diplomatic Stance
• Despite the threat of economic action, Trump emphasized his desire for a peaceful resolution.
• “I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace,” he added.
• His tone towards Russia was measured, but his approach to Ukraine has been more forceful in recent weeks.
Trump’s Tense Relations with Ukraine
• On February 28, Trump abruptly halted military aid to Kyiv after a heated confrontation with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.
• Military assistance was resumed on Tuesday, but only after Ukraine agreed to the ceasefire plan and a deal granting the US preferential access to Ukraine’s natural resources.
• Now, the next step hinges on Russia’s response.
“It’s up to Russia now,” Trump said. “I’ve gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. This is a very serious situation, it could start World War Three.”
High-Level Diplomatic Engagements Continue
• Vice President JD Vance confirmed that talks between US and Russian officials would continue via phone and in-person over the next two days.
• White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that special envoy Steve Witkoff—who has played a crucial role in Ukraine and Gaza negotiations—will travel to Moscow later this week.
• National Security Advisor Mike Waltz also spoke with his Russian counterpart on Wednesday.
• “We urge the Russians to sign on to this plan,” Leavitt emphasized, indicating that a ceasefire was within reach.
“We are at the 10th yard line, and the president expects the Russians to help us run this into the end zone,” she added, using an American football analogy to describe the final phase of the negotiations.
