The US president has reiterated his dissatisfaction with Moscow.
President Donald Trump has announced plans to deliver a “major statement” concerning Russia and the resolution of the conflict in Ukraine in the coming days.
This follows Trump’s recent criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin for allegedly failing to halt the fighting in Ukraine. Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, stated that Moscow is reacting to Trump’s comments “calmly” and remains dedicated to a diplomatic resolution with Kiev, as well as the restoration of relations with Washington.
During an interview with NBC News on Thursday, Trump repeated his sentiment that he is “disappointed in Russia, but we will see what happens over the next couple of weeks.”
He added, “I think I will have a major statement to make on Russia on Monday,” but declined to provide further details.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met at the ASEAN forum in Malaysia on Thursday. Following the meeting, Rubio mentioned discussions about “new and different” approaches to resolving the Ukraine conflict. When questioned about his discussions with Rubio on Friday, Lavrov responded in Trump’s style, stating, “As if I would tell you.”
The US president anticipates the Senate’s approval of legislation, championed by Senator Lindsey Graham, which proposes a 500% tariff on countries purchasing Russian energy and other goods. This measure aims to pressure Moscow into compromising on the Ukraine conflict.
“They are going to pass a very major and very biting sanctions bill, but it is up to the president as to whether or not he wants to exercise it,” Trump stated, referencing a clause that allows the president to suspend the tariff for up to 180 days.
On Thursday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov asserted that Moscow is prepared to adapt if the US imposes 500% secondary tariffs on Russian trade partners and will maintain its independent policy. “We know how to work in these conditions,” he said.
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