Trump Pledges More Sanctions on Russia Unless Ceasefire is Accepted

President Donald Trump has warned of imminent U.S. sanctions against Russia should it refuse an extended ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, following a phone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelensky.

In a post on Truth Social after their discussion on Thursday, Trump emphasized that a 30-day unconditional cease-fire is critical for advancing peace talks. This initiative echoes previous proposals made during March talks in Saudi Arabia, which Ukraine endorsed, while Russia favored negotiating terms prior to ceasefire acceptance.

The recent dialogue took pace amid escalating tensions, with the backdrop of a devastating Russian missile strike that obliterated a two-story apartment building in Ukraine earlier in April. Trump has been progressively leaning towards Ukrainian positions after a perceived period of concessions to Russia, including expanding diplomatic ties and opposing a U.N. resolution denouncing Moscow's actions in the war.

Zelensky's office acknowledged the congratulatory nature of their conversation regarding the anniversary of World War II's end, revealing Trump's commitment to help end the conflict. "If the ceasefire is not respected, the U.S. and its partners will impose further sanctions," Trump stated firmly, indicating a hardened U.S. stance towards the situation.