Trump Threatens Russia with Tariffs, Unveils New Weapons Plan for Ukraine

WASHINGTON – U.S. President Donald Trump has announced plans to supply Ukraine with "top-of-the-line weapons" through NATO allies while warning Russia of crippling tariffs unless a peace deal is reached within 50 days.

Following a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump stated, "We want to make sure Ukraine can do what it wants to do." Rutte confirmed the U.S. would "massively supply Ukraine" through NATO, with European nations covering costs.

The package includes Patriot air defense systems—critical for countering Russian strikes—with European countries sending their own systems and the U.S. providing replacements. Though specifics were scarce, Rutte mentioned "missiles and ammunition" would be part of the deal.

Zelensky Thanks Trump for Support
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky thanked Trump in a post on X, saying they discussed "strengthening Ukraine’s defenses" and working toward "a lasting and just peace."

100% Tariffs on Russia’s Trade Partners
Trump warned that if no peace agreement is reached, the U.S. will impose 100% secondary tariffs on nations trading with Russia. For example, if India continues buying Russian oil, U.S. importers would face steep tariffs on Indian goods—potentially forcing them to seek alternatives and cutting off revenue streams for Russia.

Given that oil and gas account for over 60% of Russia’s exports, the move could strain Moscow’s war finances. However, the Moscow Stock Exchange surged, suggesting investors expected harsher measures.

Trump’s Frustration with Putin
The president expressed frustration over failed negotiations, noting that "nice phone calls" with Putin often precede devastating attacks on Ukraine. "After that happens three or four times, you say: the talk doesn’t mean anything," Trump said, calling Putin a "tough guy" who had "fooled" past U.S. leaders but not him.

Mixed Reactions

• Kremlin-linked analysts dismissed the tariffs as a "bluff", with Senator Konstantin Kosachev calling it "much ado about nothing."

• Democratic Senator Jeanne Shaheen praised the weapons decision but called it "overdue," urging sustained support for Ukraine.

• Ukrainian civilians, like Kyiv dentist Denys Podilchuk, expressed relief that European pressure had "swayed Trump to Ukraine’s side."