**Kremlin Responds to Trump’s Ultimatum: We Need Time to Analyze**
The Kremlin has acknowledged the “seriousness” of US President Donald Trump’s warnings about imposing severe tariffs on Russia, but says it needs time to analyze the message from Washington. This comes after Trump issued a 50-day ultimatum to reach a peace deal in Ukraine, threatening to impose 100% secondary tariffs on Russia if an agreement is not reached.
According to Russian state-controlled news outlet RBC, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described Trump’s statement as “quite serious” and said some of the US president’s comments appeared to be addressed personally to Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, Peskov emphasized that Moscow requires time to analyze the situation before commenting further.
“We undoubtedly need time to analyze what was said in Washington,” Peskov said. “If and when President Putin considers it necessary, he will comment on it.”
**Trump Frustrated with Russia’s Actions**
During a White House press conference with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump expressed frustration with Russia’s actions in Ukraine, saying he had expected an agreement months ago. He accused Russia of launching missiles into Ukrainian cities and causing civilian casualties.
“I speak to Putin a lot about getting this done, and then missiles are launched into Kyiv or some other city,” Trump said. This marks a significant escalation of tensions between the US and Russia over Ukraine.
**Russia Unfazed by Trump’s Warning**
Russian Security Council Deputy Chair Dmitry Medvedev dismissed Trump’s warning as a “theatrical ultimatum.” In a statement on social media platform X, Medvedev wrote: “The world shuddered, expecting the consequences. Belligerent Europe was disappointed. Russia didn’t care.”
**NATO and EU Respond**
In response to Trump’s warnings, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte unveiled a plan to purchase and deliver advanced US-made weapons, including air defense systems, to Ukraine. The plan aims to fully finance deliveries from European stocks and replace them through US sales.
Top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas welcomed Trump’s tough rhetoric but criticized the timeline, saying 50 days is too long given Russia’s actions in Ukraine. “On one hand, it is very positive that President Trump is taking on a strong stance on Russia… On the other hand, 50 days is a very long time if we see that they are killing innocent civilians,” she said.
As tensions between the US and Russia continue to escalate over Ukraine, it remains to be seen how Moscow will respond to Trump’s ultimatum. One thing is certain: the world will be watching closely as this crisis unfolds.
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