Trump Considers Enhanced Russia Sanctions, Meets Zelenskyy After Oval Office Dispute

On Saturday, the possibility of imposing stricter sanctions on Russia was suggested. Furthermore, there are doubts surrounding Russian President Putin's willingness to halt the conflict with Ukraine.

President Trump's comments about Putin followed his meeting in Rome with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy. This was the first time the two leaders met face to face since their notable Oval Office confrontation.

"There was no justification for Putin's recent missile attacks on civilian regions," Trump shared on Truth Social.

He added, "It seems Putin might not be interested in stopping the war, only stringing things along. This situation might require a different approach, perhaps through banking measures or secondary sanctions. The loss of life is unacceptable!"

The White House reported a "very productive discussion" between Trump and Zelenskyy, although specific details were not disclosed.

Zelenskyy described the meeting as "symbolically significant," suggesting it could become pivotal if mutual objectives are achieved.

These discussions coincide with Trump's efforts to promote a peace settlement between the two countries. Recently, he proposed a resolution which included, among other points, the acknowledgment of Crimea under Russian jurisdiction, a stance Zelenskyy has repeatedly opposed.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump recognized that Russia unlawfully seized Crimea from Ukraine, a rare acknowledgment from him.

Trump criticized former President Barack Obama, suggesting his actions enabled Russia's annexation of Crimea without military confrontation.

Earlier this month, Trump stated, "Crimea will remain with Russia," acknowledging Zelenskyy and others' understanding of this longstanding fact.

In response, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine's claim over Crimea.

Meanwhile, on Friday, Trump indicated that Russia and Ukraine were nearing an agreement and urged both sides to negotiate at a high level to finalize it.

Most of the critical issues seem to have been resolved, as shared by Trump on Truth Social.