Trump threatens new sanctions against Russia over attacks on Ukraine

In a recent meeting held in Vatican City, US President Donald Trump met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of Pope Francis' funeral. Following this encounter, Trump publicly criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for escalating military attacks against Ukraine, specifically targeting civilian areas. This meeting occurred shortly after a series of long-range missile strikes by Russia, which Trump claimed were unjustified and indicative of Putin’s reluctance to pursue peace. The discussion lasted approximately 15 minutes, during which Trump expressed concern over the ongoing conflict and its humanitarian implications. The backdrop to this meeting includes a complex and evolving conflict in Ukraine, where Russian military operations have resulted in significant civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Trump accused Moscow of deliberately prolonging hostilities and suggested that a more stringent approach, including banking measures and secondary sanctions, might be necessary to alter Putin’s decision-making. Trump's remarks signal a potential shift in US policy, reflecting the ongoing tensions between the two countries amidst calls for peace negotiations that put significant pressure on Kyiv to concede to Russian demands. Amidst these developments, Russian President Vladimir Putin maintained that Moscow only targets military sites or civilian sites used by the military, a claim that contradicts the reality of attacks on differentiated civilian structures in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has consistently presented this narrative to the media, deflecting international criticism regarding the aggression on Ukraine. The ongoing dialogue between the US and its allies in support of Ukraine continues to be complicated by these repeated incidents of violence and the crisis’ humanitarian consequences. As the world watches, Trump’s statements and the potential for increased sanctions are providing a glimmer of hope for Ukraine amidst the international community's rallying around the country. However, the situation remains fraught with tension as the US navigates its response to Russia’s actions, and questions linger over whether the sanctions will effectively pressure Putin into peacemaking efforts. Recent assessments suggest that the conflict shows no signs of resolution, highlighting the dire need for continued international engagement and support for Ukraine.