US President Donald Trump expressed strong dissatisfaction with Russian leader Vladimir Putin during a press conference on July 8, sharply criticizing Russia’s actions and warning that new sanctions are under serious consideration.
“We get a lot of bullshit thrown at us by Putin,” Trump said.
According to Reuters, Trump’s remarks signal growing frustration over Moscow’s global posture, including continued aggression in Ukraine. He confirmed that his administration is weighing a fresh sanctions package:
“I am considering sanctions against Russia. Very seriously.”
The bill includes a provision to impose a 500% tariff on countries that continue to purchase goods from Russia while failing to support Ukraine.
When asked directly whether he plans to take concrete action against Putin, Trump responded:
“I won’t tell you—it might be a little surprise!”
The US President also commented on the war in Ukraine, stating that the war would have ended within “three or four days” if not for Western-supplied weapons.
“Putin has been killing a lot of soldiers,” he said, acknowledging that Ukraine’s access to advanced weaponry has played a decisive role in prolonging the war.
The comments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Moscow, as Russia continues to deepen military cooperation with Iran and North Korea. Trump’s latest remarks suggest a potential policy shift as the White House reassesses its approach to the Kremlin.
Earlier on July 8, the Kremlin criticized President Trump’s decision to resume US arms deliveries to Ukraine, claiming the move undermines efforts toward peace. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused both the US and Europe of “pumping Ukraine full of weapons” and said the new aid package signals an intent to prolong the war rather than resolve it diplomatically.
-9220540186162ee79463169b5478a8d5.jpg "Soldiers of Ukraine’s 40th Coastal Defense Brigade prepare a SHARK UAV for a mission in Kherson region, January 2025. (Source: Getty Images)")
