Donald Trump expressed strong frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin after weeks of failed ceasefire negotiations in Ukraine. In an interview with NBC News, Trump criticized Putin for questioning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s credibility. He also warned of a 50% tariff on countries purchasing Russian oil if Putin refused to agree to a ceasefire.

Trump’s Shift in Tone

Previously, Trump had pressured Zelensky for concessions while maintaining a friendly stance toward Putin. However, his latest remarks signaled a tougher approach. European leaders had grown concerned over Trump’s perceived alignment with Russia. Now, his threats of economic consequences put pressure back on Moscow.

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During a 10-minute phone interview, Trump admitted he was “very angry” and “pissed off” when Putin undermined Zelensky’s leadership. He acknowledged that he had also criticized Zelensky but insisted Putin’s actions were not constructive.

“You could say that I was very angry, pissed off, when… Putin started getting into Zelensky’s credibility, because that’s not going in the right location,” Trump stated. He warned that new leadership in Ukraine could delay any peace deal.

Economic Threats to Russia

Trump claimed the Kremlin was aware of his frustration but emphasized that he still had a “very good relationship” with Putin. However, he made it clear that if Russia failed to agree to a ceasefire, he would take decisive economic action.

“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… I am going to put secondary tariffs… on all oil coming out of Russia,” he declared.

Trump specified that a 25% tariff would apply to oil and other Russian products sold in the U.S. Additionally, secondary tariffs—penalties for countries doing business with Russia—could reach up to 50%. This would impact major Russian oil buyers like China and India.

Zelensky’s Response and Russia’s Position

Following the interview, Zelensky posted on social media, accusing Russia of prolonging the war. He remarked that “Putin is playing the same game he has since 2014” and called for a strong response from the U.S., Europe, and global allies.

Meanwhile, Moscow dismissed Zelensky’s legitimacy, arguing that his extended presidency, due to martial law, made him an invalid negotiation partner. However, Ukraine’s elections remain suspended because of the ongoing war and the displacement of millions.

War and Casualty Updates

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and currently occupies about 20% of Ukrainian territory. According to data from BBC Russian and Mediazona, over 100,000 Russian troops have died in the conflict. Ukraine last reported its losses in December 2024, estimating 43,000 military deaths. Western analysts suspect the actual number is higher.

Trump on a Possible Third Term and Iran Threats

During the interview, Trump also hinted at a third presidential term, despite constitutional limits. “A lot of people want me to do it,” he said, though he acknowledged it was a distant possibility.

Additionally, he renewed threats against Iran, warning of unprecedented bombing if Tehran refused a nuclear deal. Earlier this month, he sent a letter demanding negotiations. Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian responded that indirect talks were possible but blamed past broken promises for strained relations.

“We don’t avoid talks; it’s the breach of promises that has caused issues for us so far,” Pezeshkian said. “They must prove that they can build trust.”

Trump’s latest statements signal a shift in U.S. foreign policy, raising tensions with Russia and Iran while creating economic uncertainty for global markets.