**US President Trump Seeks to Use Energy Prices to Pressure Russia**
In a bold move, US President Donald Trump has said that declining energy prices could be the key to stopping Russian President Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine. Speaking on CNBC, Trump stated that if energy prices dropped by another $10 a barrel, Putin would have no choice but to halt the conflict.
This latest development comes as Trump’s administration continues to put pressure on Russia, India, and China to stop buying Russian oil. The US has set a deadline for August 8 for Putin to end the war in Ukraine or face tougher sanctions.
**Why Energy Prices Matter**
The drop in energy prices is attributed to increased production by OPEC countries and others. Trump expects this trend to continue, saying that OPEC+ had agreed to raise oil production by 547,000 barrels per day for September. This move marks a reversal of previous output cuts and aims to regain market share.
**A Potential Game-Changer?**
The impact of lower energy prices on Putin’s economy could be significant. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has slashed its forecast for Russian economic growth to 0.9% for this year, from 1.5% in April. This decline in economic prospects could leave Putin with little choice but to negotiate a peace deal with Ukraine.
**Trump’s Strategy**
By using energy prices as a tool to pressure Russia, Trump is employing a classic strategy of economic coercion. By making it harder for Russia to fund its military campaigns through oil sales, the US hopes to force Putin’s hand and bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine.
However, this approach also comes with risks. If Putin feels cornered, he may choose to escalate tensions or even take more extreme measures. The world will be watching closely as this situation unfolds.
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