Edith Hejberg
In a dramatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump has shortened his ultimatum to Russia from 50 days to just 10.
Donald Trump has demanded that Moscow agree to a ceasefire with Ukraine within this timeframe or face new tariffs. Trump stressed that this is his “final deadline” for Russian President Vladimir Putin to halt the war.
Kremlin Unfazed by the Threat
The Kremlin wasted no time in responding, with presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov claiming that Russia has already developed a strong resistance to Western sanctions. “The Russian economy is functioning effectively under these measures,” Peskov said, asserting that Moscow is “immune” to such restrictions.
“Immunity” Built Over Years of Sanctions
According to Peskov, Russia has been living under heavy sanctions for years, adapting its economy and insulating itself from the worst impacts.
“Of course, we’ve already developed a certain resilience against this backdrop,” he added, suggesting that new tariffs would do little to alter Moscow’s course.
No Signs of Easing the War Effort
Despite the American deadline, the Kremlin has made it clear that it intends to continue its so-called “special military operation” in Ukraine.
Peskov confirmed that there is no progress toward normalizing U.S.-Russia relations and no plans for a presidential meeting between Trump and Putin.
Trump’s View: “They’re Usually Cowards”
Trump, explaining his decision to cut the deadline, implied that the Kremlin responds best to pressure.
“Putin wants the war to continue. Our tariffs may or may not affect them… They’re usually cowards,” he remarked. His words underscored the White House’s belief that economic pressure could still change Moscow’s behavior.
A Bloody Week in Ukraine
As leaders traded words, the fighting on the ground intensified. The night of July 28–29 was one of the deadliest in recent weeks, with Russian strikes killing 22 Ukrainians and injuring 85 more.
The attacks targeted 73 towns and villages across the country, leaving widespread destruction.
No Diplomatic Breakthrough in Sight
Washington’s warnings and Moscow’s defiance point to an impasse.
While Trump is banking on the threat of tariffs to shift Russian policy, the Kremlin appears committed to its military objectives in Ukraine, regardless of economic pain.
