Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a press conference. (Photo by Contributor/Getty Images)
(EPICSTORIAN) — The Russian foreign Minister has rejected U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning of severe financial sanctions over Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, insisting that no amount of economic pressure will alter its objectives.
Moscow’s response came after Trump suggested imposing large-scale banking sanctions and tariffs on Russia unless it agrees to a ceasefire and a final peace settlement.
“Sanctions have never stopped us from achieving our goals,” Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated, dismissing Trump’s threat as ineffective.
U.S. Sanctions Prove ineffective
She further asserted that Ukraine’s current losses on the battlefield were a result of its reliance on the previous White House administration. “Ukraine has lost because they relied on the previous White House,” Zakharova added.
Moscow’s defiance signals that despite shifts in U.S. policy under Trump, Russia remains committed to its military operations.
The Kremlin has repeatedly adapted to Western sanctions, strengthening economic ties with China, India, and other nations outside the U.S.-led financial system to offset economic restrictions, CNN understands.
Trump Warns of Financial Pressure on Russia
Trump’s remarks came as part of a broader set of executive actions he signed on Thursday, including sweeping national security, economic, and trade policies.
Among the directives, he lifted the 25% tariffs on goods compliant with the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), revoked security clearances for individuals tied to the law firm Perkins Coie, intensified drug trafficking enforcement at the northern border, and secured a $20 billion infrastructure investment from global shipping giant CMA CGM.
However, his most striking policy shift was his warning against Russia. “Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely ‘pounding’ Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large-scale banking sanctions, sanctions, and tariffs on Russia until a ceasefire and final settlement agreement on peace is reached,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
This stance marks a shift in Trump’s approach toward Moscow, which in the past has been characterized by a mix of pragmatic diplomacy and reluctance to engage in extended foreign conflicts.
His new position, threatening to impose economic penalties on Russia, contrasts with his administration’s previous push for negotiated settlements rather than sanctions-driven deterrence.
U.S. Military Policy Shifts as Ukraine Struggles
Trump’s remarks came amid a dramatic shift in U.S. policy on Ukraine, as Washington has halted military aid and intelligence-sharing with Kyiv.
This policy change has left Ukraine increasingly vulnerable on the battlefield, with reports indicating Russian forces have gained significant ground in key contested regions.
The reduced support from the U.S. has forced Ukraine to ration its remaining military resources, leading to setbacks on the front lines.
Analysts suggest that without American intelligence and logistical support, Ukrainian forces are struggling to counter Russian advances.
Meanwhile, Moscow has shown no signs of retreating from its war objectives. The Kremlin has continued to push forward with its military operations, leveraging its ability to withstand Western economic pressure through alternative trade alliances.
Global Reaction to Trump’s Sanctions Warning
Trump’s threat of renewed sanctions has drawn mixed reactions from international leaders and financial markets. European officials have expressed skepticism over the effectiveness of additional economic restrictions, arguing that previous sanctions failed to deter Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
China and India, both key trade partners of Russia, have continued their economic engagements with Moscow, further insulating Russia from Western financial pressure.
Russian energy exports remain a major source of revenue, with alternative trade routes allowing Moscow to bypass U.S.-led sanctions.
Also Read: Ukraine Kills 30 Russian Troops in Strategic Strike on Training Base
In Washington, Trump’s change of position on Russia has ignited debate among policymakers, with critics arguing that his approach lacks a clear long-term strategy.
Although he has voiced opposition to prolonged U.S. military entanglements, his warning of economic sanctions suggests a more assertive stance toward Russia than during his previous administration.
