Foreign
Trump Hints at “Devastating” Financial Penalties for Russia.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has alluded to potential financial repercussions for Russia should the conflict in Ukraine continue. Speaking to reporters alongside Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin in the Oval Office on Wednesday, Trump stated that “things” could be enacted that would be “very bad” and even “devastating” for Russia financially.
While not specifying the exact nature of these measures, Trump asserted his desire to avoid such action in favor of achieving peace. He further indicated that a potential resolution may be within reach, citing a perceived shift in Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s stance towards negotiation.
These remarks follow statements from U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who placed the onus on Russia to de-escalate the conflict, suggesting Ukraine is now prepared to engage in peace talks. The viability and effectiveness of these potential financial penalties, as well as the validity of claims regarding Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate, remain to be seen.