US President Donald Trump has threatened to impose "high levels" of sanctions against Russia and tariffs on imports from the country if Moscow does not reach an agreement to end its nearly three-year war with Ukraine, CNBC reports.
In the warning, made in a social media post on his third day as president, Trump named Russian President Vladimir Putin.
"If we don't make a "deal" and soon, I have no choice but to impose high levels of taxes, duties, and sanctions on everything sold by Russia to the United States and various other countries involved," he wrote on Truth Social.
"Let's end this war that would never have started if I were president! We can do it the easy way or the hard way - and the easy way is always better," he stressed.
"It's time to "GET A DEAL". NO LIVES MUST BE LOST!!!", the president urged.
Trump has repeatedly said that he could end the war in Ukraine in a day if elected to a second, non-consecutive term in the White House. The war began in February 2022. with the invasion of Russian forces.
"They are dying, Russians and Ukrainians. I want them to stop dying. And I will do it - I will do it in 24 hours," he said in May 2023.
Trump's message today reveals his intention to use economic weapons against Russia, similar to those he has threatened to use against US allies Mexico and Canada if those countries do not submit to his will.
"I do not want to hurt Russia. I love the Russian people and have always had a very good relationship with President Putin - and this, despite the deception of the radical left, Russia, Russia," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "We must never forget that Russia helped us win World War II, at the cost of nearly 60,000,000 lives", he added.
"With all of this in mind, I would do a HUGE FAVOR to Russia, whose economy is collapsing, and to President Putin. Get this sorted out now and STOP this ridiculous war!", Trump urged.