[Trump made a strong statement: If Russia and Ukraine do not cease fire within 50 days, a 100% tariff will be imposed on countries purchasing Russian oil.]
On Monday local time, U.S. President Trump met with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte at the White House and made a significant statement regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict: If Russia fails to reach a ceasefire agreement within 50 days, the United States will impose a 100% "secondary tariff" on countries purchasing Russian oil, in an effort to pressure Moscow to end the conflict.
Tariff threats target third parties purchasing Russian oil, with India as a key focus.
The "secondary tariffs" mentioned by Trump directly target third-party countries that engage in oil trade with Russia. U.S. Ambassador to NATO, Matt Whitaker, clearly stated that this measure mainly aims at countries like India that purchase large quantities of Russian oil, with the "goal of severely impacting the Russian economy."
This threat is consistent with the logic of the "500% tariff on Russian oil and gas imports" proposal previously put forward by both parties in the U.S. and continues the line of thought from Trump earlier this year regarding tariff threats against countries purchasing Venezuelan oil. However, Trump did not clarify the legal authority to implement this tariff, only stating that "it is uncertain whether Congressional approval is needed, but legislation could be helpful."
White House officials added that if Russia does not sign a ceasefire agreement before early September, the use of both "secondary tariffs" and "secondary sanctions" cannot be ruled out—Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick also confirmed that both are "options in Trump's toolbox."
Military aid to Ukraine: American production, European payment, "Patriot" to be included but it depends on European willingness.
In military aid to Ukraine, Trump announced the provision of a "top-tier weapons package" that includes the "Patriot" air defense system, but drew a clear red line: "The U.S. is responsible for production, and the costs will be borne by NATO member countries."
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg responded that NATO will coordinate the six countries, including Germany, Finland, and Denmark, to take on the main procurement responsibilities. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has revealed that Germany plans to purchase two sets of "Patriot" systems from the United States, expecting to pay $2 billion, while also considering the procurement of the "Taurus" medium-range missile system.
However, whether Ukraine can actually obtain enough equipment still depends on the procurement capacity and willingness of European countries. Currently, the Ukrainian army urgently needs air defense systems, drone interception devices, and artillery ammunition to cope with the recent record intensity of airstrikes by the Russian military. On the same day, Ukrainian President Zelensky confirmed a phone call with Trump, stating that the two sides "discussed necessary means to protect the people and agreed to strengthen coordination."
Change in attitude towards Russia, analysis: may stimulate Moscow to intensify its offensive.
Trump's statement reveals a growing impatience with the Russia-Ukraine conflict. He candidly expressed, "I am disappointed with Putin, I thought an agreement could be reached two months ago"—unlike before when he directed his criticism at Zelensky, his dissatisfaction has now clearly shifted towards the Russian side that refuses to cease fire.
But analysts warn that this hardline pressure may backfire: Moscow may ramp up military offensives before negotiations to enhance its bargaining chips.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that the current aid to Ukraine is only the "first wave," suggesting that more actions are to come. "Europe is stepping up," he also urged Putin to "take the talks with Ukraine more seriously."
Whether this "maximum pressure" led by the United States can push for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine will depend on the critical 50-day deadline. #BTC##ETH#