- President Donald Trump shortened his original peace deadline for Russia from 50 days to 10, warning of sweeping sanctions if Moscow doesn't reach a deal with Ukraine.
- The proposed penalties include 100 percent tariffs on Russian imports and secondary sanctions on nations and companies that continue trading with Russia.
- Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia "took note" of Trump's ultimatum but declined further comment, avoiding direct criticism.
- Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev sharply criticized Trump, calling the ultimatum a provocation that risks conflict between Russia and the United States.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Trump's firm stance, calling it timely and effective, while reaffirming Ukraine's readiness for peace talks in partnership with the United States.
President Donald Trump has escalated pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, giving him a 10-day deadline to enter a peace agreement over the war in Ukraine or face sweeping new economic sanctions.
"Ten days from today," Trump said in an interview aboard Air Force One after a trip to Scotland on Tuesday, July 29. "Then you know we're going to put on tariffs and stuff and I don't know if it's going to affect Russia because he wants to, obviously, probably keep the war going. But we're going to put on tariffs and the various things that you put up, it may or may not affect them, but it could." (Related: Trump threatens 100% "secondary tariffs" on Russia if Ukraine deal is not reached in 50 days.)
The deadline was originally set to expire in early September.
The new measures would include 100 percent tariffs on all Russian imports and so-called "secondary sanctions" targeting foreign countries and companies that continue to trade with Russia – an aggressive escalation designed to isolate Moscow economically and force a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Kremlin treads lightly as Medvedev slams Trump ultimatum, Zelensky praises U.S. resolve
The Kremlin issued a cautious initial response on Tuesday after Trump announced the ultimatum.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that Moscow had "taken note" of Trump's statement, but declined to offer a direct comment, saying only, "I would like to avoid any assessments." However, the tone from other corners of the Russian leadership was far more combative. Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and current deputy chairman of the Security Council, accused Trump of reckless provocation.
"Trump's playing the ultimatum game with Russia: 50 days or 10," Medvedev wrote on his official account on X, formerly known as Twitter. "He should remember two things: One, Russia isn't Israel or even Iran. Two, each new ultimatum is a threat and a step towards war. Not between Russia and Ukraine, but with his own country."
Medvedev, known as a hardliner close to Putin, also took a swipe at Trump by warning him not to follow "the Sleepy Joe road," invoking Trump's frequent attacks on his predecessor, former President Joe Biden.
In stark contrast, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised Trump's decision to reduce the original 50-day negotiating window to just over a week and a half. In a post on X, Zelensky called it a "clear stance" that showed needed resolve at a critical moment.
"Clear stance and expressed determination by POTUS – right on time, when a lot can change through strength for real peace," Zelensky wrote on X. "I thank President Trump for his focus on saving lives and stopping this horrible war." Zelensky also reaffirmed Ukraine's readiness to work closely with the U.S. to pursue a peace agreement and long-term security partnership.
Andriy Yermak, head of Ukraine's presidential office, echoed Zelensky's support.
"Putin only understands strength and this has been communicated clearly and loudly," Yermak posted on Telegram.
Follow WWIII.news for more stories like this.
Watch this clip from "Tucker Carlson Tonight" on Fox News as host Tucker Carlson discusses how anti-Russian sanctions have not negatively affected the country at all.
This video is from the Son of the Republic channel on Brighteon.com.
More related stories:
Trump open to "bone-crushing" Russia sanctions bill, but only on his terms.
Russia will demand compensation for sanctions – Medvedev.
Anti-Russia sanctions 'killing' EU economy – Orban.
Russia wheat exports hit record high despite EU sanctions.
Sources include:
Please contact us for more information.
