Overview

• President Donald Trump announced potential sanctions, tariffs, and banking restrictions on Russia to pressure peace negotiations with Ukraine.
• Trump's statement follows intensified Russian missile and drone strikes targeting Ukraine's energy infrastructure, which have severely damaged its power capacity.
• The U.S. recently paused military aid to Ukraine after a public dispute between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, sparking concern among Western allies.
• Zelensky sent a letter to Trump apologizing for the Oval Office incident and expressing gratitude for U.S. support, which U.S. officials say has helped ease tensions.
• A meeting between U.S. and Ukrainian representatives is planned in Saudi Arabia to discuss the next steps in addressing the conflict.