Published: May 25, 2025 ✍️ Author: Global World Citizen Geopolitics Desk 🌐 Source: GlobalWorldCitizen.com 📍 Category: Global Politics & Security
As diplomatic tensions rise and Russia intensifies its assault on Ukraine, U.S. President Donald Trump is now seriously weighing new sanctions against Moscow in response to Vladimir Putin’s refusal to agree to a cease-fire. The possible measures signal a major shift in Trump’s stance, who once believed his relationship with Putin would help bring about peace.
Key Developments: Trump-Putin Rift Widens
No New Banking Sanctions (Yet): Discussions center around targeted restrictions—possibly excluding Russia from economic benefits or pushing for international support for a 30-day cease-fire.
Trump’s Tough Words: “He’s killing a lot of people… What the hell happened to him?” Trump said, referring to Putin’s actions.
Peace Talks at Risk: Sources close to the White House say Trump may abandon the negotiations entirely if Putin doesn’t agree to terms soon.
Escalation in Ukraine: Following Trump’s comments, Russia launched its largest drone-and-missile attack yet, deploying 350 drones and cruise missiles across Ukrainian cities.
What’s at Stake: U.S.–Russia Relations Under Strain
Trump began his presidency optimistic about improving ties with Moscow. However, Putin’s resistance to peace has shifted Trump’s tone dramatically.
“I’ve always gotten along with him,” Trump said. “But now he’s sending rockets into Kyiv… I don’t like it at all.”
Hours after his remarks, the Kremlin retaliated with massive airstrikes, showcasing Putin’s unwillingness to compromise.
Global Shifts: Western Allies Respond
Germany, U.K., France, and U.S. announced the lifting of range restrictions on Ukrainian weapons, allowing long-range attacks deeper into Russian territory.
Congress Moves Forward: U.S. Senators Graham and Blumenthal introduced bipartisan legislation calling for new sanctions and tariffs on countries buying Russian oil and uranium, gaining support from 80+ Senators.
Inside Trump’s Dilemma: Three Factors at Play
Strained Ties with Zelensky
Trump has expressed distrust toward Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, suggesting Zelensky fuels conflict rather than seeking peace—even after agreeing to a cease-fire proposal.
Economic Concerns
Trump fears additional sanctions could damage future U.S.–Russia economic deals, even as he acknowledges the brutality of Russia’s military actions.
Personal Betrayal
Trump once believed Putin would support peace “as a favor.” That belief has eroded—especially after a recent phone call where Putin refused to commit to cease-fire terms.
Behind the Scenes: Trump’s Turning Point
After last week’s call with Putin, Trump told Zelensky and European leaders:
“I don’t think he really wants peace.”
Now, sources say Trump may be nearing the same conclusion as past presidents—that Putin is the obstacle to peace, not the key to it.
Historical Echoes: U.S. Presidents vs. Putin
George W. Bush (2001): Trusted Putin—until the invasion of Georgia.
Barack Obama (2009): Tried a “reset”—then Putin annexed Crimea.
Trump (First Term): Armed Ukraine—yet sought closer ties with Moscow.
Trump (Second Term): Now considering a sharp pivot to pressure as Putin digs in.
GlobalWorldCitizen.com Insight
President Trump’s shift toward sanctioning Russia marks a critical point in 21st-century global diplomacy. If sanctions are enacted, they may redefine U.S. foreign policy and shape the next phase of the Ukraine war.
As always, GlobalWorldCitizen.com delivers real-time coverage of geopolitics, peace negotiations, and international power dynamics.