U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday said he is considering imposing tariffs and large-scale sanctions on Russia’s banking sector over its continued bombardment of Ukraine.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump said the sanctions would be in place until a ceasefire deal is reached.
“Based on the fact that Russia is absolutely ‘pounding’ Ukraine on the battlefield right now, I am strongly considering large scale Banking Sanctions, Sanctions, and Tariffs on Russia until a Cease Fire and FINAL SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT ON PEACE IS REACHED,” he said.
Trump added, “To Russia and Ukraine, get to the table right now, before it is too late. Thank you!!!”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in a social media post on Friday, revealed that Russia launched yet another massive attack on Ukraine’s energy grid, dropping 70 missiles and about 200 drones on various regions in the country.
“Various facilities were targeted in several regions – Odesa, Poltava, Chernihiv, and Ternopil. In total, the Russians used nearly 70 missiles, both cruise and ballistic, as well as almost 200 attack drones,” Zelenskyy said.
“All of this was directed against infrastructure that ensures normal life. Currently, repair and restoration work is ongoing wherever needed,” he added.
Zelenskyy stated that Russia’s missile in Kharkiv hit close to an apartment building and injured a lot of people who are currently receiving medical assistance.
He thanked France, whose F-16 fighter jets and Mirage aircraft were used to protect Ukraine during the strike.
Zelenskyy said, “In particular, the Mirages successfully intercepted Russian cruise missiles. Thank you!”
“I also want to recognize the performance of our anti-aircraft missile forces, army aviation, all our electronic warfare units, and mobile fire groups,” he stated.
The Ukrainian leader called for more pressure on Russia to stop the attacks as it is a huge step towards reaching a ceasefire agreement.
He said, “The first steps toward real peace must include forcing the sole source of this war, Russia, to stop such attacks against life. And this is something that can be effectively monitored.
“Silence in the skies – banning the use of missiles, long-range drones, and aerial bombs. And silence at sea – a real guarantee of normal navigation.
“Ukraine is ready to pursue the path to peace, and it is Ukraine that strives for peace from the very first second of this war. The task is to force Russia to stop the war,” Zelenskyy stated.
