US President Donald Trump has warned of “devastating” consequences for Russia if President Vladimir Putin refuses to agree to a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. Trump issued the stark ultimatum while outlining his administration’s efforts to broker an end to the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
When questioned about potential measures to pressure Russia into peace, Trump stated, “There are things that wouldn’t be pleasant in a financial sense. I can do things financially that would be very bad for Russia. I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace.” He added, “In a financial sense, yes, we could do things that would be very bad for Russia, that would be devastating for Russia. But I don’t want to do that.”
The remarks followed an announcement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz that Ukraine had agreed to a 30-day ceasefire, contingent on Russia’s acceptance. The U.S. has already imposed significant economic sanctions on Russia and its oligarchs following the annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Now, the possibility of a ceasefire hinges on Russia’s response, with Trump intensifying economic pressure on Moscow.
When asked whether Putin would honor a ceasefire, given past violations, Trump responded cautiously, “We haven’t spoken to him yet with substance, because we just found out. We’re going to know very soon. I’ve gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. This is a very serious situation. This is a situation that could lead to World War III.”
The development comes after Ukraine agreed to the U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire during talks in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. In tandem, the U.S. announced the resumption of military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine. Secretary of State Rubio emphasized that the next move lies with Russia, stating, “We’re going to tell them this is what’s on the table. Ukraine is ready to stop shooting and start talking. And now it’ll be up to them to say yes or no.”
The international community now awaits Russia’s decision, as the stakes for peace—or further escalation—remain critically high.
