Trump threatens 25% tariff on Russian oil amid Putin tensions
In an interview with NBC, Donald Trump stated that he is "very angry" and annoyed with Vladimir Putin. The American president also threatened to impose tariffs on Russian oil.
What do you need to know?
- Donald Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Vladimir Putin's criticism of Volodymyr Zelensky, threatening sanctions on Russian oil.
- Putin suggested the formation of a transitional government in Ukraine, which could mean removing Zelensky from power.
- Trump announced that if no agreement is reached regarding a ceasefire, he will impose a 25-percent tariff on Russian oil.
What are Trump's plans regarding Russia?
Donald Trump, in his conversation with NBC News, voiced his dissatisfaction with Vladimir Putin's criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump declared that if no agreement is reached regarding a ceasefire, he will impose a 25-percent tariff on Russian oil. “If you buy oil from Russia, you can’t do business in the United States,” Trump stated.
“If Russia and I are unable to make a deal on stopping the bloodshed in Ukraine, and if I think it was Russia’s fault — which it might not be — but if I think it was Russia’s fault, I am going to put secondary tariffs on oil, on all oil coming out of Russia,” he indicated.
What does Putin's criticism mean for Ukraine?
Vladimir Putin suggested forming a transitional government in Ukraine, which could lead to removing Zelensky from power. Trump, who previously criticized Zelensky, is now expressing his dissatisfaction with Putin's actions. “I am very angry,” Trump said, adding that his relationship with Putin could improve if the right steps are taken.
What will be Trump's next steps?
Trump announced that he will speak with Putin again in the near future. Meanwhile, the USA, Ukraine, and Russia are engaged in talks to end the conflict in Ukraine. Last week, a partial ceasefire was reached, allowing safe navigation in the Black Sea and halting attacks on energy facilities. Trump announced that if no agreement is reached, tariffs on Russian oil will come into effect within a month.
