During a high-stakes meeting with NATO leadership, former President Donald Trump announced that he will impose “very severe tariffs” on Russia if a peace deal with Ukraine is not reached within 50 days. And if that doesn't work, Trump warned that a second wave of “100% secondary tariffs” would follow — a threat aimed squarely at Vladimir Putin's inner economic circle.
“I use trade for a lot of things,” Trump said. “But it’s great for settling wars.”
This bold economic threat comes as the United States officially confirmed a new package of advanced missile defense systems and aid to Ukraine, heightening tensions with Moscow. According to Trump, the tariffs are intended to create enough financial pressure on the Kremlin to force a diplomatic resolution without military escalation.
While the Biden administration continues direct military support, Trump’s statement suggests a drastically different approach if he returns to the White House — one focused on strategic trade warfare instead of boots on the ground.
Critics question whether such tariffs would be enforceable without international backing. However, supporters say Trump’s aggressive trade strategy has precedent, referencing his past negotiations with China and North Korea.
With just 50 days on the clock, all eyes now turn to Russia — and whether Vladimir Putin is willing to risk total economic isolation.
President Trump on Russia: "We're very, very unhappy with them and we're going to be doing very severe tariffs if we don't have a deal in 50 days. Tariffs at about 100%." pic.twitter.com/nDWaAojSoC
— CSPAN (@cspan) July 14, 2025