Trump says Russia could face ‘devastating’ financial penalties if it continues war against Ukraine- wna24

U.S. President Donald Trump said that Russia could face “devastating” financial repercussions if it continues war against Ukraine.

Trump was speaking in the Oval Office during a visit by Micheál Martin, the Taosich of Ireland.

Trump said ‘it’s up to Russia now’ as US presses for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, “and hopefully we can get a ceasefire from Russia,” Trump commented during an extended exchange with reporters during an Oval Office meeting with Martin. “And if we do, I think that would be 80% of the way to getting this horrible bloodbath” ended.

The president again veiled threats to hit Russia with new sanctions.

“We can, but I hope it’s not going to be necessary,” Trump added.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly ruled out a temporary break in hostilities, saying it would only benefit Ukraine and its Western allies by letting them replenish their arsenals. He has insisted Moscow wants a comprehensive agreement that would ensure a lasting settlement.

The Kremlin responded cautiously to the news of Ukraine accepting the U.S.-proposed truce during Tuesday’s talks in Saudi Arabia, saying that it needs to know details of the discussions before expressing its view.