Trump threatens tougher sanctions on Russia over Ukraine war. Kremlin hits back, warning Europe and US won’t change Putin’s position.
Russia Hits Back at Trump’s Sanction Threats Over Ukraine War
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to intensify as tensions rise between the Kremlin and US President Donald Trump. Over the weekend, Trump once again warned Russia that tougher sanctions could be enforced if no peace deal is reached — but Moscow quickly fired back with a strong response.
Trump’s Sanctions Ultimatum
Trump has repeatedly issued warnings to Vladimir Putin, threatening “economically severe” measures unless Russia agrees to peace negotiations.
On Sunday (September 7), following a deadly aerial strike in Ukraine that killed four people, Trump told reporters he was “not happy with the whole situation” and confirmed he was ready to move to a “second phase” of sanctions.
He emphasized:
“Yeah, I am [prepared].”
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent also echoed this stance, saying additional US and European sanctions could push Putin toward peace talks:
“If the EU increases their sanctions, Russia’s economy will be in total collapse, and that will bring President Putin to the table.”
Russia Issues Stern Warning
The Kremlin wasted no time in responding. According to Sky News, Russian officials accused Europe and Ukraine of trying to pull the United States deeper into the conflict.
They declared that no sanctions would ever force Russia to “change the consistent position that our president has repeatedly spoken about.”
This signals that Moscow remains defiant, despite the growing pressure from Washington and its allies.
Europe’s Position and Macron’s Statement
European leaders have largely stood by Ukraine, with French President Emmanuel Macron announcing that 26 of Ukraine’s allies are prepared to deploy troops “by land, sea, or air” as security guarantees once a ceasefire is reached.
Macron clarified, however, that this does not mean Europe seeks war with Russia:
“We do not wish to wage war, but we must protect against any major new aggression.”
In response, Putin warned that any foreign troops in Ukraine could be considered “legitimate targets.”
He said:
“If any troops appear there, especially now, during military operations, we proceed from the fact that these will be legitimate targets for their destruction.”
What Happens Next?
As the war drags on, both sides appear unwilling to back down. Trump is signaling harsher steps, Europe is reaffirming support for Ukraine, and Russia is refusing to bend under sanctions.
The world now watches closely as the situation unfolds, with hopes that diplomatic talks may still bring a path to peace.
