Trump may impose sanctions on Russia this week – WSJ

This was reported by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing informed sources, according to Ukrinform.

The restrictions likely won’t include new banking sanctions, but other measures are being discussed to pressure the Russian leader into making concessions at the negotiating table, including a potential 30-day ceasefire, the publication writes.

It is also reported that Trump may ultimately decide not to impose any new sanctions.

“President Trump has made it clear that he wants to see a negotiated peace deal. He has also wisely kept all options on the table,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt in a statement to The Wall Street Journal.

Sources told the publication that Trump is growing weary of the peace negotiations and may walk away if the latest diplomatic push fails.

Trump has resisted pressure to criticize Putin for refusing a ceasefire, but his views have been influenced by three key factors, according to WSJ’s sources.

First, Trump reportedly harbors a dislike for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who Trump believes has encouraged further conflict by insisting on sanctions.

Second, Trump doubts that additional sanctions on Russia will significantly hinder its ability to wage war but believes they may interfere with efforts to restore U.S.-Russia economic ties.

Third, Trump feels he “understands” Putin and believed the Russian leader would end the war as a personal favor. Putin’s refusal to compromise has shaken Trump's confidence, especially after a phone call last week during which Putin declined to sign a ceasefire agreement.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian ruler Vladimir Putin held a two-hour phone call on Monday, May 19.

Following the conversation, Trump stated that Russia and Ukraine must immediately begin ceasefire negotiations and work toward ending the war.