US President Donald Trump has said he is ready to impose tougher sanctions on Russia, but only if Nato countries meet certain conditions which include stopping buying Russian oil. In a post on his Truth Social platform, he said he was 'ready to do major sanctions on Russia' once Nato nations had 'agreed, and started, to do the same thing.' Trump has repeatedly threatened tougher measures against Moscow, but has so far failed to take any action when the Kremlin ignored his deadlines and threats of sanctions. He described the purchases of Russian oil as 'shocking' and also suggested that Nato place 50 to 100% tariffs on China, claiming it would weaken its 'strong control' over Russia. In what he called a letter to Nato nations, Trump said: 'I am ready to 'go' when you are. Just say when?' He added 'the purchase of Russian oil, by some, has been shocking! It greatly weakens your negotiating position, and bargaining power, over Russia.' Trump's message came during heightened tensions between Nato allies and Russia after a dozen Russian drones entered Polish airspace. European nations have spent around €210bn on Russian oil and gas since 2022, funding the invasion of Ukraine, and there are calls for a quicker phase-out of these purchases.
Trump Signals Tougher Sanctions on Russia If NATO Acts
Trump Signals Tougher Sanctions on Russia If NATO Acts
US President Donald Trump is prepared to impose strict sanctions on Russia, contingent upon NATO countries ceasing their oil purchases from Moscow.
In a recent update via his Truth Social platform, President Trump indicated a willingness to enforce significant sanctions against Russia, contingent on NATO nations committing to halt oil imports. With tensions escalating between NATO allies and Russia, Trump's call comes as European reliance on Russian energy is rapidly decreasing. He emphasized that stopping oil purchases is crucial for strengthening NATO's negotiating power over Russia, suggesting a collaborative approach to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
