Trump doubts his ability to influence Putin on Ukraine war - Axios
Photo: Russia President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump has started to doubt his ability to influence Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin on the war in Ukraine, Axios reports.
Despite his earlier promises to end the war in Ukraine, Trump seemed doubtful about his ability to influence Putin. He admitted to his trusted aides that he misjudged the Kremlin leader's willingness to pursue peace.
A month ago, Trump warned that Putin would face serious consequences if he did not agree to a ceasefire or take concrete steps toward peace during their Alaska meeting.
Since then, the Russian leader has refused both a ceasefire and a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, yet Trump has not imposed new sanctions.
Instead, Axios reports, his administration has shifted the responsibility for pressuring Putin onto Europe, urging the EU to impose additional sanctions on Moscow and China over Russian oil purchases.
Trump threatens new sanctions and may meet Putin
On Friday, Trump told reporters his patience with Putin is running out. He said the Ukrainian leader wants peace, but Putin’s intentions remain uncertain. Trump added that the US may have to take very strong measures.
"Well, I'd be hitting very hard on with sanctions to banks, and having to do it to oil and tariffs. But I've already done it. I've done a lot," Trump said, explaining how he plans to pressure Putin.
Another meeting between US and Russian leaders is still possible. Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said Trump, Putin, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang will visit Malaysia for the 47th ASEAN Summit in October.
