**Polish President Urges Trump to Increase Pressure on Russia Over Ukraine Conflict**
In a move that could signal a shift in Washington’s approach to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Polish President Andrzej Duda has called on US President Donald Trump to increase economic pressure on Russia. According to a report by Politico, Duda made the appeal during an interview with the Axel Springer Global Reporters Network.
Duda argued that the United States has the tools necessary to effectively influence the Kremlin and force an end to Russia’s war against Ukraine. He emphasized that only Trump has real leverage over Russian President Vladimir Putin, suggesting that the US president is uniquely positioned to take drastic measures against Moscow.
**Trump’s Leverage Over Putin**
The Polish president’s comments come as Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose tariffs and sanctions on Russia but has yet to implement concrete measures since taking office. Duda suggested that Trump has “seen the reality” after recent discussions with Putin and is now poised to push for serious negotiations between Moscow and Kyiv.
Ukraine has long urged Washington to intensify pressure on Moscow, and Trump himself has recently expressed frustration with Russia’s unwillingness to negotiate. On April 26, he even accused Putin of being uninterested in ending the war, saying that Putin might be “tapping me along.”
**Growing Support for Stronger Measures**
Duda’s call is gaining traction in Washington, where at least 72 US senators are prepared to back severe sanctions and steep tariffs targeting Russia and countries supporting its energy exports. The proposed bill includes new penalties on Russia and 500% tariffs on imports from nations buying Russian oil, gas, or uranium if Putin avoids serious peace talks.
In a recent interview with NBC News, Trump indicated that the US may consider additional sanctions if Russia does not agree to a peace deal with Ukraine. This development suggests that Washington is moving towards a more confrontational approach towards Moscow.
**Implications and Analysis**
The growing support for stronger measures against Russia has significant implications for the conflict in Ukraine. A sustained economic pressure campaign could weaken Putin’s position and create opportunities for a negotiated settlement between Moscow and Kyiv.
However, it remains to be seen whether Trump will follow through on his threats or opt for a more cautious approach. The Polish president’s call is an important step towards increasing pressure on Russia, but ultimately, it is up to the US administration to decide how far they are willing to go in supporting Ukraine.
As the situation continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the international community is watching with bated breath as Washington weighs its options. The next move will be crucial in determining the fate of Ukraine and the future of relations between Russia and the West.
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