Donald Trump went on a tirade against Russian President Vladimir Putin during an early morning phone call on Sunday. The president repeatedly said he is ‘pissed off’ at Putin for questioning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s credibility and legitimacy after he insisted this week the war torn country needs new leadership. Speaking with NBC host Kristen Welker, Trump warned that Russia could face a new round of harsh economic sanctions. He said this would include a tariff of between 25 and 50 percent on oil from Russia, as well as a warning to other countries that if they do buy oil from Russia, ‘you can’t do business in the United States.’
| Published March 30, 2025
In a dramatic escalation of rhetoric and policy, former U.S. President Donald Trump has openly expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over stalled peace negotiations regarding Ukraine. This latest development signals a potential shift in diplomatic strategy, as Trump vows to leverage economic pressure to force Russia into cooperation.
Trump’s Outburst: A Warning to Putin
According to sources close to the former president, Trump’s anger stems from Putin’s new conditions for ending hostilities in Ukraine. Reports indicate that the Russian leader has demanded a transitional government in Ukraine to replace President Volodymyr Zelensky. Some even suggest that Putin is indirectly encouraging Ukrainian military officials to remove Zelensky from power.
Trump’s response was swift and uncharacteristically harsh. In a private meeting with advisors, he reportedly described Putin’s maneuver as “unacceptable” and vowed to take decisive action if the Russian president did not comply with efforts to negotiate a ceasefire.
The Economic Hammer: Tariff Threats on Russian Oil
In an effort to apply pressure, Trump has threatened steep tariffs on Russian oil—ranging from 25% to 50%—if Moscow refuses to cooperate. His proposed plan would not only target Russian energy exports but also restrict any country that purchases Russian oil from doing business with the United States.
This economic threat is designed to disrupt Russia’s primary revenue source. The former president’s inner circle believes that by hitting Moscow’s financial backbone, Putin may be forced to make concessions regarding Ukraine.
International Reactions and Potential Consequences
Trump’s stance has drawn mixed reactions globally. Some European leaders cautiously welcome his aggressive posture, hoping that it may accelerate the end of the war. Others fear that such economic measures could drive Putin to further escalate the conflict or seek closer economic ties with China and other non-Western allies.
Additionally, economic analysts warn that such tariffs could have ripple effects on global oil prices, potentially impacting American consumers. However, Trump’s advisors argue that the long-term goal of weakening Russia’s war effort outweighs the short-term economic risks.
What’s Next?
With tensions at an all-time high, the coming weeks could determine whether Trump’s strategy succeeds in pressuring Russia or further complicates the situation. If Putin refuses to back down, the former president may push for even harsher economic penalties or explore alternative diplomatic measures.
For now, one thing is clear—Trump is determined to leave his mark on the Ukraine crisis, and his latest move could set the stage for a major geopolitical shift.
SOURCES: DAILY MAIL – Trump lashes out at Putin in emotional two-word rebuke as Ukraine peace talks collapse
THE NEW YORK POST – President Trump ‘pissed off’ at Putin, threatens stiff tariffs on oil over Ukraine war demands
AXIOS – Trump threatens tariffs if Russia doesn’t end Ukraine war
AL JAZEERA – Trump threatens tariffs if EU doesn’t buy more oil and gas from US
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