Russia has firmly rejected US President Donald Trump’s recent threat to impose new sanctions if Moscow fails to agree on a Ukraine peace deal, describing the move as a mere “theatrical ultimatum.” Former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev said the threat of Trump Russia sanctions failed to make an impact, highlighting Moscow’s disregard for such pressure.
In a message posted in English on X, Medvedev remarked: “Trump issued a theatrical ultimatum to the Kremlin. The world shuddered, expecting the consequences. Belligerent Europe was disappointed. Russia didn’t care.” Trump had announced fresh weapons support for Ukraine and warned of 100 percent tariffs on buyers of Russian exports, especially crude oil, unless Moscow moves toward peace within 50 days.
Despite Medvedev’s remarks, the Kremlin has not officially responded to Trump’s statement. However, it acknowledged that Washington continues to supply military aid and ammunition to Ukraine, escalating the ongoing conflict.
Trump’s strategy, which centers on Trump Russia sanctions, also includes possible secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil, a move directly targeting China and India, Russia’s largest energy partners. Meanwhile, in the US Senate, 85 of the 100 senators have backed legislation that would allow Trump to impose 500 percent tariffs on any country that helps Russia. Senate Republican leaders are currently waiting for Trump’s formal approval before bringing the bill to a vote.
In an interview with the BBC, Trump signaled frustration with President Vladimir Putin, though he stopped short of calling him “an assassin,” instead describing Putin as “a tough guy.” Trump also hinted he believes a Ukraine peace deal might still be achievable.
Analysts suggest these proposed US sanctions on Russia reflect a sharp escalation in pressure, aiming to curb Russia’s oil revenues and isolate it diplomatically. Yet Moscow’s reaction, dismissing the ultimatum, raises questions about whether the strategy will bring meaningful change.
As tensions continue, the threat of wider sanctions and secondary tariffs puts major buyers of Russian crude, like China and India, under diplomatic scrutiny. For now, Russia remains defiant, with Medvedev’s statement underscoring its unwillingness to bend under external pressure.
Whether Trump’s push for a peace deal will gain momentum, or simply deepen divisions remains to be seen. But the proposed Trump Russia sanctions show the US is prepared to apply unprecedented economic measures to influence Moscow’s next move.
