US President Donald Trump has said he is prepared to impose a new round of sanctions on Russia following its largest air assault on Ukraine since the war began.
Asked by reporters at the White House whether he was ready to move to a “second stage” of sanctions, Trump answered in the affirmative, though he did not detail what measures this would include.
Before his Alaska summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin last month, Trump had warned of new sanctions and tariffs targeting countries that import Russian oil, a move aimed at cutting off a vital source of revenue for Moscow.
Ukraine welcomed Trump’s remarks. Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko called Russia’s latest attack “barbaric,” saying:
“We appreciate President Trump’s prompt reaction and strong signal of readiness to impose secondary sanctions. This step is very important for Ukraine as our people continue to suffer every day.”
Overnight, Russia launched at least 810 drones and decoys, killing four people, injuring 44, and damaging Ukraine’s central government building in Kyiv for the first time. Ukraine said it intercepted more than 745 drones and four missiles. The previous record bombardment was in July, when Russia sent 728 drones.
President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the “ruthless” attack and vowed an “appropriate response.” He also reiterated his refusal to travel to Moscow for talks, insisting Putin must come to Kyiv if he wants dialogue.
Trump, who had expressed optimism about peace prospects after meeting Putin, gave only brief remarks before departing for the US Open in New York City, saying sanctions were now firmly on the table.
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