A Dangerous Gambit: Trump Bets on Sanctions Threat to End Ukraine War

President Donald Trump has embarked on a dangerous but potentially rewarding gambit, betting that the threat of “massive sanctions” can force an end to the war in Ukraine. He has given Russia and Ukraine a two-week deadline to show progress before he plays his hand.
The success of this strategy hinges on the willingness of Russian President Vladimir Putin to meet with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelensky. Trump is using the leverage gained from his recent meetings with both leaders to push them toward the negotiating table.
As the threat of economic warfare looms, Vladimir Putin has adopted a surprisingly conciliatory tone towards Trump himself. He praised the U.S. president as a “light at the end of the tunnel,” suggesting a belief that personal diplomacy could overcome the deep structural problems in the U.S.-Russia relationship.
Putin’s conciliatory words were balanced with a firm declaration on national sovereignty, which he argued is indispensable for Russia’s existence. This dual message of openness to dialogue and unwavering defense of national interests creates a complex and unpredictable environment for the critical two weeks ahead.