President Donald Trump is turning up the heat on Russian President Vladimir Putin after recent remarks from the Kremlin cast doubt on the future of peace negotiations with Ukraine. Trump, who has been working to broker an end to the conflict, said he is angry over Putin’s suggestion that Ukraine needs new leadership before any deal can be finalized.
Trump warned that if Russia is responsible for sabotaging the peace process, he will move swiftly to impose tariffs on oil and additional sanctions. He said that if oil buyers continue dealing with Russia, they would be barred from doing business in the United States.
Trump walks back "pissed off at Putin" statement he allegedly made to NBC News.
"Disappointed, in a certain way" that Putin considers Zelensky "not credible." Zelensky was called a dictator, multiple times, by Trump. pic.twitter.com/fmQFaYn0yB— Alex Christoforou (@AXChristoforou) March 31, 2025
During an interview, Trump said he was “pissed off” when he heard Putin question Zelenskyy’s legitimacy, especially during active negotiations. He viewed that as a serious obstacle to making progress and said he would consider tariffs between 25% and 50% on Russian oil.
Putin’s comments followed his proposal for a transitional administration to lead Ukraine. According to him, such a shift would allow for democratic elections and future agreements with a new government. Trump rejected that approach, warning it would only prolong the war.
Trump says he’s “very angry” and “pissed off” over Putin’s remarks criticizing Zelensky’s credibility.
Follow: @AFpost pic.twitter.com/fhl5oQpulW
— AF Post (@AFpost) March 30, 2025
Despite his frustration, Trump said he still plans to speak directly with Putin again soon. Their last conversation took place earlier this month, and he believes communication remains key, even as tensions rise.
The situation has become more tense following new violence across Ukraine. Over the weekend, drone and missile attacks hit cities including Kharkiv, Dnipro and Kryvyi Rih. Ukrainian officials reported several deaths and dozens of injuries as a result.
Putin praised his troops last week, claiming they are taking control of new areas. His comments about military progress stand in contrast to the ceasefire goals backed by the U.S.
