Trump Warns Russia: Blocking Ukraine Ceasefire Could Be ‘Disastrous’

Washington, March 13, 2025

President Donald Trump has warned Russian President Vladimir Putin that rejecting a US-backed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine could have severe financial consequences for Moscow. Speaking at a White House press briefing on Wednesday, Trump stressed that the responsibility now lies with Russia, as Ukraine has already agreed to the temporary truce.

“We have people currently heading to Russia,” Trump announced, confirming that US envoys are en route to Moscow to present the ceasefire agreement and discuss broader peace negotiations. The plan, developed through diplomatic talks in Saudi Arabia, calls for an immediate halt to hostilities on land, sea, and in the air.

While Ukraine has accepted the terms, the Kremlin has remained hesitant. Russian officials stated that they are still “studying” the proposal and awaiting further clarification from US diplomats. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov signaled that Russia is open to discussions but has not yet committed to the ceasefire.

US Warns of Economic Repercussions for Russia

Trump did not specify potential punitive measures but hinted at severe financial actions if Moscow refuses to halt its military offensive. “There are things you could do that wouldn’t be pleasant, in the financial sense,” Trump said. “I can do things financially that would be very bad for Russia. I don’t want to do that because I want to get peace.”

Despite his warnings, Trump maintained an optimistic tone, suggesting that he had received “some positive messages” from Russian sources. However, he cautioned against premature conclusions, adding, “A positive message means nothing until we see action.”

Diplomatic Efforts Intensify

As tensions rise, Special Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Russia later this week. Meanwhile, Vice President JD Vance confirmed that negotiations are continuing through both direct meetings and phone discussions between US and Russian officials. It remains unclear whether Trump will personally engage in talks with Putin.

The proposed ceasefire comes amid an already strained relationship between Washington and Kyiv. Just last week, Trump temporarily withheld military aid and intelligence-sharing with Ukraine following a heated dispute with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The aid was later restored after Ukraine agreed to the truce proposal.

Since Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the conflict has led to tens of thousands of casualties and widespread destruction. If accepted, the ceasefire could serve as a crucial step toward de-escalation and pave the way for broader peace negotiations.

However, uncertainty remains over whether Russia will comply, given previous violations of ceasefire agreements. The coming days will be critical in determining whether Putin chooses diplomacy or continues military operations, with potential economic consequences looming over Moscow’s decision.

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