Trump Warns Putin of ‘Devastating’ Consequences If Ukraine Ceasefire Is Rejected

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President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, threatening severe financial consequences if Russia refuses to agree to a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. His ultimatum comes as his administration works to bring an end to the ongoing conflict, which he has repeatedly suggested could escalate into World War III.  

Trump threatens Putin with 'devastating' punishment if he doesn't agree to 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine. pic.twitter.com/vU6rLTX479

— Daily Mail Online (@MailOnline) March 12, 2025

 

While discussing potential measures to pressure Russia into compliance, Trump stated, “There are things that wouldn’t be pleasant in a financial sense. I can do things financially that would be very bad for Russia. I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace.” He reiterated the seriousness of his economic leverage, adding, “In a financial sense, yes, we could do things that would be very bad for Russia, that would be devastating for Russia. But I don’t want to do that.”  

 

Trump’s comments follow the announcement by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and national security advisor Mike Waltz that Ukraine has agreed to a 30-day ceasefire—on the condition that Russia also agrees. This marks a notable shift in Trump’s approach to Russia, as he has previously praised Putin’s strategic thinking and, at times, expressed an understanding of Russia’s position.  

 

His stance took a sharper turn recently, particularly following an intense Oval Office meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky two weeks ago. This shift was also evident when he posted a trade-related threat against Russia online days earlier.  

 

The United States has already imposed numerous economic sanctions on Russia and its oligarchs since the country’s annexation of Crimea in 2014, as well as following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. However, with the prospect of a ceasefire now dependent on Russia’s response, Trump is increasing the financial pressure in an effort to force Moscow’s hand.  

 

He pointed to upcoming negotiations in Moscow, where his envoy, Steve Witkoff, is set to engage with Russian officials. When asked whether he trusted Putin to abide by a ceasefire, given previous violations, Trump responded, “We haven’t spoken to him yet with substance, because we just found out. We’re going to know very soon. I’ve gotten some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. Very serious situation. This is a situation that could lead to World War III.”  

 

As tensions rise, the world awaits Russia’s response to Trump’s ultimatum.

 

Based on a report by AP | Daily Mail  2025-03-13