Trump Threatens ’Massive’ Sanctions on Russia after Stalled Ukraine Talks

One week after the high-profile Alaska summit between U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, progress toward a peace settlement between Ukraine and Russia remains frustratingly elusive. In response, President Trump has renewed his threat to impose "massive sanctions" or even tariffs on Russia if meaningful talks do not materialize within the next two weeks.
The renewed warning comes amid growing tensions: a recent Russian missile strike on a U.S.-operated factory in Ukraine injured several workers, further straining diplomatic efforts. Despite Trump's efforts to orchestrate a tripartite meeting between himself, Putin, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Russia has declined, citing the absence of a finalized agenda.
President Trump claimed that Russia had tentatively agreed to respect Western security guarantees for Ukraine. However, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov dismissed such reports, arguing that negotiations excluding Moscow were futile.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy continues to press for direct talks. He has softened earlier demands, signaling willingness to adjust preconditions. Still, Russia maintains rigid territorial expectations, proposing a frozen frontline in some regions while hinting at possible returns of occupation.
Putin, for his part, denounced the current U.S.–Russia relations as among the lowest since World War II, but also expressed cautious optimism about improved ties following the Alaska meeting.

Sources: Reuters, The Guardian