Former U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a new, shortened deadline of 10 to 12 days for Russia to make progress toward ending its war in Ukraine, warning of imminent sanctions and tariffs if Moscow fails to comply. Speaking on Monday during a visit to Scotland, where he is meeting with European leaders and playing golf, Trump voiced frustration with President Vladimir Putin, describing himself as “disappointed” with Russia’s continued aggression.
“I’m going to make a new deadline of about… 10 or 12 days from today. There’s no reason in waiting,” Trump said during talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. He added, “It would be sanctions and maybe tariffs, secondary tariffs. I don’t want to do that to Russia. I love the Russian people.”
Trump’s remarks signal a shift from his earlier, more patient stance—he had previously set a 50-day deadline earlier this month but expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress. While Ukraine welcomed the strong message, with Andriy Yermak, chief of staff to President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, thanking Trump for “standing firm,” the Kremlin has yet to respond officially.
Though Trump has often emphasized a “good relationship” with Putin in the past, Monday’s remarks made clear that he is now prepared to act decisively. He also dismissed further talks with the Russian leader, stating, “If you know what the answer is going to be, why wait?” The ultimatum comes amid rising tensions over Ukraine’s proposed peace summit and increasing skepticism about Russia’s willingness to negotiate.