President Donald Trump has issued a warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin, threatening harsh financial repercussions if Russia refuses to accept a 30-day ceasefire agreement reached with Ukraine.

When asked how the U.S. could pressure Russia into peace, Trump responded:
“There are things that wouldn’t be pleasant in a financial sense. 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.”

He further emphasized:
“We could do things that would be devastating for Russia, but I don’t want to do that.”

Trump’s remarks came after Secretary of State Marco Rubio and National Security Advisor Mike Waltz announced that Ukraine had agreed to a temporary ceasefire, pending Russia’s approval.

The U.S. has already imposed significant economic sanctions on Russia—both following the 2014 annexation of Crimea and the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Now, the fate of the ceasefire rests on Russia’s decision, with Trump signaling increased economic pressure if Putin refuses.

When asked whether Putin would honor the ceasefire, given Russia’s history of violating agreements, Trump remained cautious:
“We haven’t spoken to him yet in detail, but we will soon. I’ve received some positive messages, but a positive message means nothing. This is a very serious situation, one that could lead to World War III.”

The ceasefire agreement was reached during talks in Saudi Arabia, where Ukraine accepted a U.S.-brokered proposal. In response, the U.S. lifted its pause on military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine.

Following the discussions, Rubio made it clear that the next move is up to Russia:
“We’re going to tell them: this is what’s on the table. Ukraine is ready to stop shooting and start talking. Now, it’s up to them to say yes or no.”