WASHINGTON — President Donald J. Trump on Wednesday issued a direct message to Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling for an immediate end to the war in Ukraine and threatening economic sanctions if the conflict continues. The statement marked the administration’s most direct call for peace negotiations since Trump returned to office.

“We must never forget that Russia helped us win the Second World War, losing almost 60,000,000 lives in the process,” Trump said in his remarks, emphasizing his historical ties to the Russian people while pressing for a resolution. “Settle now, and STOP this ridiculous War! IT’S ONLY GOING TO GET WORSE.”

Trump warned that without a diplomatic resolution, the United States and its allies would impose “high levels of Taxes, Tariffs, and Sanctions” on Russian goods. The president’s comments framed the conflict as both a humanitarian and geopolitical priority, stressing that “NO MORE LIVES SHOULD BE LOST.”

In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin acknowledged Trump’s remarks during a press briefing, stating, “We also hear [Trump’s] statement about the need to do everything possible to prevent World War III. We certainly welcome this attitude.” Putin also reiterated his criticism of previous U.S. policy under former President Joe Biden, whom he blamed for the deterioration in U.S.-Russia relations.

The war in Ukraine, now entering its third year, has caused significant global instability, with no signs of an imminent ceasefire. President Trump’s comments signal a renewed U.S. effort to facilitate a negotiated end to the conflict.

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