U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday issued a stark warning to nations maintaining economic ties with Russia, threatening to impose 100 percent “secondary” tariffs if a Ukraine ceasefire is not reached within 50 days. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump expressed deep frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin and the stalled efforts to end the conflict.
“I’m disappointed in President Putin, because I thought we would have had a deal two months ago, but it doesn’t seem to get there,” Trump said. “So based on that, we’re going to be doing secondary tariffs if we don’t have a deal in 50 days.”
The proposed 100 percent tariffs would target countries conducting business with Russia, significantly ramping up economic pressure in an effort to force a diplomatic breakthrough. Trump’s ultimatum comes amid broader efforts to rally NATO support for Ukraine and deter continued Russian aggression.
Trump also announced plans to expand U.S. arms sales to NATO allies, stressing that European countries would cover the costs. “The United States will not be having any payment. But we will manufacture it, and they’re going to be paying for it,” he said, adding that the U.S. produces “the best missiles” and “the best of everything.”
The comments reflect Trump’s dual strategy of economic coercion and military support, as he pushes for a resolution to the war in Ukraine while reinforcing his “America First” policy approach.
